(Los Angeles, CA) A woman identified as Kathryn Gerdes, 30, was killed early Saturday morning, October 18, in a 10 Freeway exit crash on a downtown Los Angeles interchange, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The collision occurred around 4:33 a.m. on the transition from the eastbound Santa Monica (10) Freeway to the northbound Harbor (110) Freeway. CHP Officer Erik Larson said Gerdes walked across traffic lanes at the time of the collision. All of a sudden, a white Lexus RX 350 struck her near the freeway divider.
The driver of the Lexus remained at the scene and cooperated with officers. When paramedics arrived, they pronounced Gerdes dead at the scene. Authorities issued a SigAlert at 5:02 a.m., closing several lanes for investigation and cleanup. After a few hours, they lifted the closures shortly after 8 a.m. The circumstances leading to the crash remain under review.
Perspective on the 10 Freeway Exit Crash
Pedestrian fatalities on freeway interchanges are rare but often tragic due to high speeds and limited visibility. The 10 Freeway exit crash will prompt investigators to examine why the victim was on foot in a restricted area and whether lighting or road conditions played a role.
In these types of incidents, California Vehicle Code 21954 is typically reviewed. This law directs pedestrians crossing outside of marked intersections to yield the right-of-way to vehicles. Drivers are expected to still exercise due care to prevent collisions. Investigators will consider visibility, driver reaction time, and traffic flow when determining the cause.
If roadway speed or environmental conditions contributed to the collision, the Basic Speed Law may also come into play. It requires drivers to operate at a speed that is reasonable and safe for conditions. Conditions can include darkness, road curvature, or pedestrian presence. Even on freeways, drivers must remain alert for unexpected hazards.
CHP will continue to investigate the 10 Freeway exit crash to determine the full sequence of events that led to the death of Kathryn Gerdes and whether additional safety measures could prevent future tragedies at this interchange.
Support for Gerdes’ Family
If you are a loved one of Kathryn Gerdes, you can reach out to the CHP Los Angeles Area Office for updates on the investigation and to request a copy of the official collision report once available.
Families dealing with the loss of a loved one in a freeway crash may also contact the Los Angeles County Victim Assistance Program for counseling and support. Speaking with a wrongful death attorney can further help you understand your rights and options as you seek closure following the 10 Freeway exit crash.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
