(Homeland, CA) A 32-year-old Hemet man was struck and killed early Friday morning in a Highway 74 accident after stepping into traffic where no crosswalk was available, authorities said.
CHP reported that the crash occurred shortly after midnight on eastbound Highway 74, just east of Melba Avenue. Officer Mike Lassig stated a man had been walking along the north shoulder of the road. Then, he attempted to cross the four-lane highway.
Lassig further said the pedestrian successfully crossed the westbound lanes. All of a sudden, the man then stepped directly into the path of an eastbound 2003 Kia Sorrento traveling about 45 mph. The driver, an 18-year-old Hemet resident, immediately stopped after the impact. Paramedics from the Riverside County Fire Department arrived within minutes and pronounced the man dead at the scene.
No arrests were made, and authorities said the nearest marked crosswalk is nearly a mile away at Leon Road. Anyone with information is urged to contact the CHP Temecula office at 951-466-4300.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim.
Perspective on the Highway 74 Accident
Pedestrian fatalities on rural highways are often caused by limited lighting, high traffic speeds, and long distances between crosswalks. Investigators will evaluate these factors to understand how the collision occurred and whether additional safety measures could prevent future incidents.
Because the victim crossed outside of a marked crosswalk, California Vehicle Code 21954 applies. This statute requires pedestrians crossing the road at unmarked locations to yield the right-of-way to vehicles. The law highlights the shared responsibility of both pedestrians and drivers in avoiding accidents on busy corridors.
If visibility or roadway speed contributed to the collision, the Basic Speed Law may also come into consideration. It requires drivers to travel at speeds that are reasonable and prudent for conditions. This includes darkness and pedestrian presence. Even within the speed limit, a driver must adjust to ensure safe stopping distances.
Authorities will continue to review these laws and factors to determine the full circumstances surrounding the Highway 74 accident and whether roadway design or pedestrian access improvements might reduce risks in the area.
Guidance for the Family
If you’re related to the victim, it’s natural to want answers and closure. You can contact the CHP Temecula office to obtain the full collision report once it’s completed.
It may also be helpful to connect with the Riverside County Victim Services Division for grief counseling and financial support. Families seeking legal guidance can speak with a wrongful death attorney experienced in highway and pedestrian cases to better understand their rights and next steps.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
