(Long Beach, CA) A woman identified as 36-year-old Shalanda Young lost her life in a tragic Cherry Avenue collision early Tuesday morning, according to authorities.
On Tuesday, September 23, at about 4:00 a.m., the Cherry Avenue collision occurred near Curry Street. The Long Beach Police Department reported that officers arrived to find Shalanda Young lying in the roadway with critical injuries. They provided immediate medical aid until Long Beach Fire Department paramedics arrived.
Despite their efforts, paramedics pronounced Young dead at the scene. Investigators later confirmed her identity as a Long Beach resident. According to detectives, a 2015 Honda Civic travelled southbound on Cherry Avenue when the driver tried to avoid a man in the roadway. Instead, the vehicle struck Young. The driver, a 30-year-old man from Norwalk, remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators.
The Long Beach Police Department Collision Investigation Detail continues to review the circumstances of the Cherry Avenue collision.
Legal Analysis on the Cherry Avenue Collision
Fatal pedestrian crashes often raise complex questions of liability. California law outlines duties for both drivers and pedestrians, even in unusual circumstances like this case. One key statute is California Vehicle Code 21950, which requires drivers to yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing within marked or unmarked crosswalks.
Another relevant rule is California Vehicle Code 22350, the Basic Speed Law. It requires all drivers to operate at speeds safe for conditions, including visibility and potential roadway hazards. Investigators will examine whether the Honda driver travelled at a safe speed when attempting to avoid the man in the roadway.
If distraction played any role, California Vehicle Code 23123.5. This prohibits drivers from using handheld devices. Even minor distractions can prevent a driver from responding safely to unexpected hazards. Since Shalanda Young tragically lost her life, her family has the right to bring a wrongful death lawsuit under California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60. This type of legal claim allows recovery for funeral expenses and loss of income.
Advice for Shalanda Young’s Family
For Young’s family, the sudden loss is heartbreaking. Consulting with a wrongful death attorney can help them understand their legal rights. A lawyer can gather police reports, review roadway evidence, and consult accident reconstruction experts to clarify whether negligence played a role.
A wrongful death claim may provide financial support while also ensuring accountability. Taking timely legal action can preserve evidence and protect the family’s rights as the investigation into the Cherry Avenue collision continues.
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim. We know this is a difficult time as you mourn the tragic and sudden loss of a loved one. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this horrible incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.