(Riverside, CA) A 40-year-old man was fatally struck by a vehicle Friday evening, December 5, in a Magnolia Avenue collision in Riverside.
According to the Riverside County Fire Department, the crash occurred around 5:20 p.m. near Magnolia Avenue and Polk Street. When officers arrived to the crash site, they found the pedestrian suffering from major injuries.
Paramedics transported the victim, identified as Cody McPhail of Winchester, to a nearby hospital. Despite life-saving measures, he later succumbed to his injuries. Police said the driver of the involved vehicle remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators.
Preliminary findings indicate that McPhail crossed Magnolia Avenue outside a marked crosswalk. At that moment, a westbound vehicle traveling through a green light struck him.
Anyone with information about the fatal collision is urged to contact Traffic Detective Jeff Derouin at 951-826-8722.
Overview on the Magnolia Avenue Collision
In pedestrian fatality cases, investigators review several traffic laws to determine fault and contributing factors. The Pedestrian Roadway Law requires pedestrians crossing outside of marked crosswalks to yield to vehicles that are close enough to pose a hazard. However, this does not relieve drivers from exercising caution to avoid collisions.
California Vehicle Code §21950(b) mandates that drivers remain vigilant and take all reasonable actions to prevent striking pedestrians, even when the pedestrian is not in a designated crossing area.
Additionally, the Basic Speed Law requires drivers to travel at speeds that are safe for roadway and traffic conditions, particularly during evening hours when visibility is limited. These statutes will guide investigators in determining how the Magnolia Avenue collision occurred and whether it could have been prevented.
Support for McPhail’s Family
The family of Cody McPhail should remain in contact with the Riverside Police Department’s Traffic Bureau. They can provide updates on the investigation and a copy of the official collision report once available. This report will contain important details that may assist with insurance, legal, or financial matters.
Families of pedestrians killed in traffic accidents may also qualify for assistance through the California Victim Compensation Board, which helps cover funeral costs, grief counseling, and related expenses.
In addition, consulting a wrongful-death attorney experienced in pedestrian cases may help clarify the family’s rights and potential avenues for justice or compensation.
During this difficult time, local support services and grief counseling programs in Riverside County can provide emotional care and guidance.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
