(Los Angeles, CA) One person died in a Southbound 405 Freeway crash after a tow truck struck them near Skirball Center Drive.
On Monday, September 8, shortly before 2:00 p.m., the Southbound 405 Freeway crash occurred. According to authorities, it happened in the southbound lanes near Skirball Center Drive.
Authorities learned the victim had been standing outside a gray Toyota Prius parked on the freeway shoulder. Meanwhile, a flatbed tow truck traveling southbound. All of a sudden, the truck struck the victim, causing fatal injuries. Paramedics pronounced the victim dead at the scene. Witnesses reported that officers conducted a field sobriety test on the tow truck driver. They then took him into custody pending further investigation. Officials have not yet confirmed whether he will face criminal charges.
The crash caused heavy traffic delays on the 405 Freeway, with backups stretching to the 101 interchange in the San Fernando Valley. Thousands of commuters experienced significant delays as investigators worked the scene. The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the Southbound 405 Freeway crash, including why the victim stood outside their vehicle.
Legal Opinion on the Southbound 405 Freeway Crash
The Southbound 405 Freeway crash involves multiple legal issues under California law. Most importantly, the driver of the tow truck may face liability if intoxication or negligence caused the collision. If the sobriety test confirms alcohol or drug impairment, California Vehicle Code 23152 applies. This law makes it illegal to drive under the influence. A DUI that results in a fatal crash may escalate to gross vehicular manslaughter charges. Even without confirmed intoxication, California Vehicle Code 22350, the Basic Speed Law, could apply. This law requires drivers to maintain safe speeds for conditions. Driving too fast near a freeway shoulder where a pedestrian stands can create deadly consequences.
Another potential violation is California Vehicle Code 21709, which prohibits driving in the safety zone adjacent to a freeway shoulder unless necessary. If investigators find the tow truck driver swerved or failed to maintain a safe distance, this law may apply. Because the victim died, their family may pursue a wrongful death claim under California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60. This allows close relatives to seek compensation for funeral costs, loss of financial support, and the emotional toll from losing a loved one.
What the Family Can Do
The family of the deceased should contact a wrongful death attorney quickly. An attorney can request the California Highway Patrol’s full collision report of the Southbound 405 Freeway crash. They can also review bodycam footage and obtain any available freeway surveillance video. Witness testimony will also be key in establishing liability. If the driver faces DUI or manslaughter charges, the criminal case will move forward separately. However, the family can pursue a civil wrongful death claim regardless of the criminal outcome. This civil action can provide financial support for funeral expenses and lost income, as well as recognition of the emotional harm caused by this sudden loss.
Although no legal outcome can replace their loved one, holding the responsible party accountable can help the family secure justice. Taking action soon will also preserve important evidence in this tragic Southbound 405 Freeway crash
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.
