(Los Angeles, CA) A man was killed Saturday night, January 31, after attempting to cross traffic lanes on a busy freeway in a northbound 110 Freeway accident.
The California Highway Patrol said officers responded around 8:33 p.m. to the Harbor (110) Freeway just north of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. When officers arrived, they found a pedestrian who had been struck by a vehicle while in the roadway.
Investigators identified the victim as Arturo Hernandez Renteria, 45, of Los Angeles. CHP said he ran from the right shoulder toward the center divider, trying to cross various traffic lanes. During that attempt, a northbound 2015 Mercedes-Benz struck him.
Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded to the scene, but Renteria suffered fatal injuries and died at the location. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner said he died from blunt traumatic injuries.
CHP said a 30-year-old woman from Moreno Valley drove the Mercedes, who stopped immediately after the collision and cooperated with officers. Investigators did not report any signs of impairment and did not announce any arrests.
Following the crash, CHP issued a SigAlert that shut down all northbound lanes of the 110 Freeway south of Adams Boulevard. Officers diverted traffic into the toll lanes while crews documented evidence and cleared the roadway. Lanes later reopened after the preliminary investigation concluded.
Analysis on the Northbound 110 Freeway Accident
When a pedestrian is struck on an active freeway, investigators review traffic safety laws to understand what factors may have contributed, without assigning fault prematurely. These reviews often focus on pedestrian conduct, driver reaction time, and freeway operating conditions.
Because the pedestrian was walking within freeway lanes, investigators may examine the Pedestrian Rights and Duties Law. This law generally prohibits pedestrians from being on controlled-access highways except in limited circumstances. Freeways carry high-speed traffic with little expectation of foot traffic, which greatly increases danger.
Authorities may also review the Basic Speed Law. This law requires drivers to operate at speeds reasonable for traffic, visibility, and roadway conditions. Even when drivers follow the speed limit, nighttime freeway conditions can limit reaction time when an unexpected hazard appears.
If stopping distance becomes part of the review, investigators could consider the Following Too Closely Law. This law requires drivers to maintain enough space to stop safely. On freeways, limited spacing can reduce a driver’s ability to avoid sudden obstacles. Together, these laws help guide CHP’s evaluation of the northbound 110 Freeway accident as evidence continues to be reviewed.
Support for the Family
If you are related to Arturo Hernandez Renteria or are supporting his loved ones, staying in contact with investigators can help you obtain updates and request official CHP and medical examiner reports.
You may also consider speaking with a legal professional experienced in fatal pedestrian freeway cases to better understand your options. Emotional support is essential after sudden loss, and leaning on family members, friends, or grief counseling resources can help during a very difficult time.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
