(Los Angeles, CA) Family and friends gathered Sunday night, October 12, to honor Joseph Loulakis, 28, who was killed in a Monterey Road collision in the Monterey Hills area of Los Angeles on September 26.
According to loved ones, Loulakis rode his motorcycle when a driver attempted a U-turn in front of him. This led to a fatal impact near the intersection of Monterey Road and Kendall Avenue. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene. His mother, Sandra Loulakis, said she is seeking justice for her son.
The Los Angeles Police Department has not released further details about the driver involved or whether charges will be filed. The investigation remains ongoing.
Joseph Loulakis’ family set up a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral expenses.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim.
Perspective on the Monterey Road Collision
Motorcycle crashes are often sudden and severe, leaving little room for error when other drivers make unsafe maneuvers. Investigators are examining how the U-turn was executed and whether speed or visibility played a role.
When a driver turns across oncoming traffic, California Vehicle Code 21801 becomes central. This law requires any driver intending to turn left or make a U-turn to yield the right-of-way to approaching vehicles. Violating this rule can have deadly consequences, especially when motorcycles are more dangerous due to their smaller profiles.
If unsafe speed contributed to the impact, the Basic Speed Law may also apply. It prohibits driving faster than is safe for conditions such as lighting, traffic, and roadway layout. Investigators will review evidence, including skid marks, vehicle positioning, and witness statements, to determine whether either factor contributed to the fatal crash.
Authorities will use these findings to establish accountability and identify possible safety improvements to prevent another tragedy like the Monterey Road collision.
Advice for Loulakis’ Family
Losing a loved one so suddenly is devastating, and Joseph Loulakis’s family deserves both compassion and clarity as they seek justice. You can contact the Los Angeles Police Department for updates on the investigation and request the collision report once it becomes available.
Families may also wish to reach out to a wrongful death attorney experienced in motorcycle accidents for guidance on next steps. The Los Angeles County Victim Assistance Program provides counseling, legal guidance, and financial support for those coping with loss after a fatal crash.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.