Lakewood, CA (December 9, 2023) 38-year-old Eduardo Villalpando was struck and killed by a vehicle in Lakewood as he did his job as a crossing guard on the corner of Pioneer Street and Centralia Street, according to authorities. The accident happened on December 1st moments after he walked a group of children across the street.
A video of the accident shows Villalpando standing on the corner after assisting children across the street. A Dodge Challenger was speeding down the street and slammed into a Honda Pilot SUV that was turning left at the intersection.
The force of the impact sent the Challenger into the street corner where it crashed through a cement shopping sign before slamming into Villalpando. The violent impact sent Villalpando flying through the air and his left leg was completely severed by the impact. His right leg was also severely injured.
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Police officers and paramedics arrived at the scene and Villalpando was rushed to a local hospital. “I’m here, I’m alive,” he said. “I’m thankful I’m alive and just fighting every day to get stronger.” He has a long road of recovery ahead of him, medical personnel reported.
Villalpando’s wife, Maria, said that she doesn’t like seeing her husband in pain. The two have an 8-year-old son and she said that he misses his father while Villalpando remains in the hospital. The collision not only took one of his legs and seriously injured the other, but it also left injuries throughout Villalpando’s entire body, officers said.
The video of the accident shows employees from the SuperFine Auto Spa car wash nearby quickly running over to assist Villalpando following the crash.
This accident remains under investigation, authorities said. They want to determine just exactly what happened to cause this violent collision in Lakewood.
Who Is Liable In A Lakewood Collision?
Despite improved safety measures for cars, motor vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of serious injury and death in the United States. According to the CDC, “more than 32,000 people are killed and 2 million are injured each year from motor vehicle crashes.” There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to a car accident including speeding, distracted driving, dangerous turns, inclement weather, poorly designed roadways and even intoxication.
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid causing accidents. This is especially true for commercial drivers that work for a city. A number of collisions are due to drivers that make dangerous left turns. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21801, the driver of any vehicle intending to turn left must yield the right of way traveling from the opposite direction close enough to pose a hazard.
If a negligent driver worked for a city, that city could potentially be liable in the event of an accident. Generally speaking, employers are vicariously liable for the negligent actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. There are a number of steps that should be taken after a car accident.
- Photos of the accident site should be taken.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- A thorough independent investigation should be conducted.
The family of any victim that has died in a car accident may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. It is essential that evidence is properly preserved after a car accident. A car accident attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigation Of A Lakewood Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend well wishes to Eduardo Villalpando as he recovers from this violent accident. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about a Lakewood car accident? Our team of personal injury lawyers are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that negligent drivers are held to account for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (866) 945-4286.
