(Toluca Lake, CA) A Westbound 134 Freeway collision resulted in the death of David Smith, 51, which involved multiple vehicles near the Cahuenga Boulevard exit early Monday morning.
On Monday, September 15, at about 12:11 a.m., the Westbound 134 Freeway collision occurred. According to California Highway Patrol Officer Sergio Garcia, it happened on the westbound Ventura (134) Freeway near Toluca Lake.
When officers arrived, they discovered David Smith lying in one of the freeway’s middle lanes. Nearby, they found a vehicle overturned on its roof. Reports also indicated that two SUVs involved in the crash sustained front and rear-end damage. Paramedics pronounced Smith dead at the scene.
The California Highway Patrol closed four lanes of the freeway for several hours while they investigated. Traffic remained backed up until lanes reopened later in the morning. The cause of the Westbound 134 Freeway collision remains under investigation.
Legal Opinion on the Westbound 134 Freeway Collision
The Westbound 134 Freeway collision raises several important legal issues under California law. Because this crash involved multiple vehicles and the death of David Smith, investigators must carefully determine fault. One possible violation is California Vehicle Code 22350, the Basic Speed Law. This law requires drivers to travel at speeds safe for road, traffic, and visibility conditions. If any driver traveled too fast or could not react safely, liability may apply.
If investigators find that unsafe lane changes contributed, California Vehicle Code 22107 could also apply. This law prohibits unsafe lane changes unless they can be made with reasonable safety. On a busy freeway, even a single unsafe movement can trigger multi-vehicle collisions. Additionally, if a driver failed to maintain a safe following distance, California Vehicle Code 21703 is relevant. This statute prohibits drivers from following another vehicle too closely, a common cause of chain-reaction freeway crashes.
Since this crash resulted in death, the Smith’s family may pursue a wrongful death claim under California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60. This allows close relatives to seek damages for funeral costs, lost financial support, and the emotional toll of losing a loved one.
What the Family of David Smith Can Do
The family should contact a wrongful death attorney immediately. An attorney can review the CHP’s report of the Westbound 134 Freeway collision, examine crash scene photos and obtain witness statements. Traffic cameras or nearby surveillance footage may also provide key evidence. If investigators find one driver primarily at fault, the family may pursue civil damages in addition to any criminal charges. A wrongful death claim can help cover funeral expenses and provide financial stability during this difficult time.
While the legal process cannot undo this tragic loss, pursuing accountability can provide justice and financial relief for Smith’s family. Swift legal action following the Westbound 134 Freeway collision will also help preserve crucial evidence.
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim. We know this is a difficult time as you mourn the tragic and sudden loss of a loved one. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this horrible incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
