(Sun Valley, CA) A pedestrian lost their life Sunday evening in a Glenoaks Boulevard accident that is now under investigation by Los Angeles police.
On Sunday, September 28, officers from the LAPD Foothill Division responded to reports of a collision in the 8700 block of Glenoaks Boulevard. When officers arrived, they found a pedestrian unconscious in the roadway. Emergency responders determined the victim had died at the scene.
Authorities have not yet released the identity of the victim, pending notification of the family. Officials are asking community members with any information to reach out to the LAPD Valley Traffic Division. The Glenoaks Boulevard accident remains under investigation as detectives gather details about how the collision occurred.
Legal Opinion on the Glenoaks Boulevard Accident
This case raises important legal considerations under California law, especially in pedestrian fatalities. First, Vehicle Code 20001 requires drivers involved in injury or fatal collisions to stop, identify themselves, and provide reasonable aid. If a driver failed to stay at the scene, it would qualify as a felony hit-and-run with both criminal and civil consequences.
Next, Vehicle Code 21950 protects pedestrians by requiring drivers to yield the right-of-way to anyone lawfully crossing within a marked or unmarked crosswalk. Even if the pedestrian was outside of a crosswalk, drivers must still act cautiously to prevent harm.
Finally, investigators may review speed. Vehicle Code 22350 mandates that drivers must never operate a vehicle at speeds unsafe for roadway conditions, regardless of the posted limit. At night or in pedestrian-heavy areas, even legal speeds can be considered negligent if they contribute to a crash.
What the Family Can Do
For the family of the victim, this is a heartbreaking and sudden loss. They may pursue a wrongful death claim, which can provide financial support for funeral expenses, emotional distress, and the loss of companionship. If the driver is identified, the family may hold them accountable in civil court. Even if the pedestrian was not in a crosswalk, California’s comparative fault laws may still allow partial recovery. If the driver remains unidentified, uninsured motorist benefits through the family’s own insurance policy may help.
Time is crucial in these cases. Preserving evidence such as police reports, scene photos, and potential surveillance footage will strengthen any legal claim. Speaking with an attorney can provide the family with clear steps forward, ensuring their rights are protected during this difficult time. The Glenoaks Boulevard accident underscores how vulnerable pedestrians are on busy Los Angeles streets and why families deserve accountability and justice after such tragedies.
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.