(Gardena, CA) A 135th Street collision killed Gabriella Bravo, 34, when a vehicle struck her in Gardena.
On Sunday, September 1, at 10:05 p.m., the 135th Street collision occurred. According to Lt. Matthew Hassoldt of the Gardena Police, it happened in the 1700 block of 135th Street.
Upon investigating, officers learned the crash involved a pedestrian and an Infiniti Q50 sedan. The driver of the Infiniti stopped immediately and contacted 911. When officers arrived, they found Gabriella Bravo lying unresponsive in the roadway, Hassoldt said. Medical personnel from the Los Angeles County Fire Department arrived minutes later and assessed her condition. Paramedics pronounced her deceased at the scene. Authorities later confirmed Gabriella Bravo as the woman killed in the 135th Street collision. Officials continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Legal Opinion on the 135th Street Collision
The 135th Street collision that killed Gabriella Bravo raises serious legal considerations. Even though the driver stayed at the scene and cooperated, California law places strict duties on motorists when pedestrians are involved.
California Vehicle Code 21950 requires drivers to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing within marked or unmarked crosswalks. The law also states that drivers must exercise due care for pedestrian safety, even if a pedestrian does not cross lawfully. Investigators will need to determine whether Bravo crossed at a designated area or outside a crosswalk. Regardless, drivers must remain alert and avoid endangering pedestrians. If investigators conclude the driver traveled at an unsafe speed for nighttime conditions, California Vehicle Code 22350, known as the Basic Speed Law, may apply. This law requires drivers to operate at a speed that is reasonable for the conditions, regardless of the posted speed limit.
Since Bravo lost her life in this collision, her family may pursue a wrongful death claim under California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60. This law allows close relatives, such as parents, children, or a spouse, to seek compensation. Compensation can include funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional toll of losing a loved one.
What the Family Can Do
The family of Gabriella Bravo should consider speaking with a wrongful death attorney. An attorney can obtain the official police report, review any available traffic or surveillance camera footage, and consult accident reconstruction experts if needed. These steps help clarify whether the driver violated traffic laws.
Even though the driver stopped and cooperated, civil liability may still exist if investigators determine negligence played a role. By pursuing a claim, the family can seek justice and financial support during this devastating time. No lawsuit can undo the tragedy, but holding the responsible party accountable may provide closure and help ease the financial burdens that follow such a sudden loss.
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.
