Los Angeles, California: David Roper, 60, identified today after getting struck while on a roadway near LAX. The crash was reported at 2:03 a.m. on Sepulveda Boulevard on July 23rd.
Los Angeles Police Officer J. Chaves states that the collision occurred on Sepulveda Boulevard on the 98th street. The bus was in northbound of Sepulveda Boulevard Street. It was initially reported that Roper was crawling on the street.
Los Angeles Medical Examiners confirmed that Roper died from his traumatic injuries.
Investigation on Pedestrian Collison
Investigators of the pedestrian collision may have looked at Pedestrian’s Rights and Duties Law (21950) (C) to determine what law the driver of the bus may have violated. This law states that a driver should yield the right of way for pedestrians on or unmarked side walks. The driver may have violated the law due to striking the pedestrian in a marked or unmarked crosswalk. Assuming Roper did not cross a marked cross-walk based on reports of him crawling, the driver may had to still yield to the pedestrian.
Pedestrian do have required duties they need to follow here in California. Pedestrian’s Rights and Duties Law(21950) (B) states that the law does not relieve pedestrian from the duty of using duties for their own safety. This law is important to also practice our safeties while also acknowledge that the drivers also have responsibilities.
(21950) (b) regarding pedestrians that investigators may reviewed is, “no pedestrian may suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle that is so close as to constitute an immediate hazard” sometime its not the driver that recklessly hits a pedestrian, it can be the pedestrian that harm themselves accidently or even on purpose, such as jay-walking. That may have been the reason as to why the Long Beach Pedestrian, David Roper died.
Advice for the Family Affected
If you have lost a loved one in this incident, staying in contact with Los Angeles Police Department investigators can help you receive updates as the investigation continues. You can request official reports when they become available to better understand the circumstances.
You may also consider speaking with a qualified legal professional experienced in pedestrian collision cases. They can help explain your options and guide you through next steps. In addition, seeking support from family, friends, or grief counseling services can provide comfort during this difficult time.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
