(Watts, California) Pedestrian Struck By Two Vehicles took place on Sunday, at 1401 E. Imperial Highway, south of the Nickerson Gardens Community.
An investigation of the incident took place today. The Los Angeles Police Department says the pedestrian was crossing Imperial Highway, south curb to the north side of the street. From then on he was hit by a light-colored SUV traveling eastbound. The vehicle did not stop and left the scene.
The man was laying down on the street when he was struck by a second vehicle that was traveling westbound on imperial. The second driver stopped their vehicle and cooperated with the traffic investigators. Police Department Spokesperson confirmed that the pedestrian was pronounced dead on scene. Los Angeles Spokesperson says that a canopy was set up to conceal his body.
A Los Angeles Police Department Officer states that the pedestrian was believed to be a homeless person.
Analysis on 1401 E. Imperial Highway
Investigators of this case may review California Code, VEH 20001 and California Code, VEH 21950. These codes discusses who has the right of way, and the requirements in staying on scene after getting involved in a crash resulting in death or injury.
In regards to the SUV that failed to stop, investigators may review 20001(a). This code discusses that if a driver of a vehicle was involved in a vehicle crash involving death or injury should immediately stop their vehicle at the scene and fulfill requirements in 20003 and 20004. This may be important to investigators because it determines what the driver has violated. In this case he violated this law by not staying at the scene.
Investigators may want to determine what the driver should be punished with in regards to leaving the scene. They may review 20001 (2). This law discusses that if one does not follow (a) of this section, they should be punished with imprisonment by state prison or in a county jail for at least a year or fined $1,000 to $10,000.
When it comes to who has the right of way in this case, investigators may want to specifically review 21950 (a). This law states that the driver should yield the right-of-way crossing the roadway in an unmarked/marked crosswalk at an intersection. This law does not apply unless otherwise stated in this chapter. This may show that the two drivers have violated this law by not making sure the pedestrian was out of their way to continue driving. This may have led the pedestrian to getting struck by two vehicles.
Advice for the Family
If you have lost a loved one in this incident, staying in contact with the Los Angeles Police Department can help you receive more information from the investigation. You can request official reports when they become available to better understand the circumstances.
You may also consider speaking with a qualified legal professional experienced in pedestrian accident cases. They can help explain your options and guide you through next steps. In addition, seeking support from family, friends, or grief counseling services can provide comfort during this difficult time.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
