(Acton, California) A man now identified as Rigoberto Antonio Lemus, 38, fatally struck by Sedan while simply exiting his vehicle near Ward Road in Acton.
Officer Andre Ortiz, spokesperson for CHP New Hall Area Office confirmed that first responders received reports on a two vehicle crash and a body in southbound 14 freeway, south of Ward Roan in Acton.
The initial report involved a man who stopped his vehicle in southbound SR-14 in lane 3 after running out of gas. He then came out of his vehicle, standing when a sedan struck him. His daughter, Kristen Lemus opens up about her fathers death on her GoFundMe page.
“He was transported by helicopter, but sadly, we were told that he passed away instantly”
Lemus was transported to the Antelope Medical Center confirmed by spokesperson for Los Angeles County Fire Department, Ryan Rau.
There have been no suspects of Alcohol and Drugs.
The driver of the sedan did stay on scene with the California Highway Patrol as well as cooperating with them.
Perspective on Southbound SR-14
If speed was a factor in the collision, investigators may take a look at the Speeding Laws code, 22350. This may help determine the violation speed that the vehicle may have gone against. Sometimes speed can cause severe damage to a human being, resulting in death. The law states “No person shall drive a vehicle upon a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable or prudent having due regard for weather, visibility, the traffic on, and the surface and width of, the highway, and in no event at a speed which endangers the safety of persons or property.”
The following rules of the quote above may match to the driver’s violation. For one, the collision was on a freeway, and in California, that is considered a highway. Under this law, a street is also considered a highway. (Words and Phrases Defined) (360)
Distraction While Driving
Another possible cause would be distraction. Getting distracted while driving can also have an impact in striking an individual because you are not seeing what’s ahead. In code (23123.5) (a) states A person shall not drive a motor vehicle while holding and operating a handheld wireless telephone or an electronic wireless communications device unless the wireless telephone or electronic wireless communications device is specifically designed and configured to allow voice-operated and hands-free operation, and it is used in that manner while driving. Getting distracted using your phone while driving can cause fatal harm to an individual. As well as the driver and even yourself. It can also cause harm to properties such as buildings, poles, stores, etc.
Here are the following punishments for using your electronic device while driving. Under the Driving Offenses Law code 23123 (B) states that a violation of this section can cause a base fine of 20 dollars for the first offense. It is 50 dollars for each subsequent offense.
Advice for the Family
If you have lost a loved one in this incident, staying in contact with the California Highway Patrol can help you receive more information from the investigation. 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 accident 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.
