Karina Melchor (Full Name: Karina Hernandez Melchor) Died In South Los Angeles Car Accident On South San Pedro Street
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA (September 30, 2022) – A woman identified as Karina Melchor has tragically died in a South Los Angeles car accident along South San Pedro Street.
Los Angeles County police officials are saying that the accident took place around 10:15 p.m. on Monday. Karina Melchor was walking when she was hit by a southbound vehicle.
Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene of the accident in order to help the victim. Despite life-saving measures, Karina Melchor died as a result of her injuries.
Police interviewed the 20-year-old driver involved in the crash who remained at the scene.
Liability In Los Angeles Pedestrian Accidents
Los Angeles County has one of the highest instances of pedestrian accidents in the United States. According to the LAist, “In 2019, 134 people were killed by drivers while walking in Los Angeles. That’s about one death every two-and-a-half days. In fact, pedestrian deaths increased from 87 in 2014 — or nearly 55% over 5 years.” There are a number of steps that drivers should take in order to avoid hitting pedestrians.
- Drivers should slow down in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic.
- Drivers should continuously scan the road ahead of them for potential hazards.
- Drivers should abstain from alcohol and other intoxicating substances.
Every person driving a car has a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid hitting pedestrians. Many pedestrian accidents are due to drivers that are speeding. According to California Vehicle Code 22350, no person shall drive a motor vehicle at a speed greater than would be reasonable or prudent given the prevailing conditions of the roadway. If a person fails to slow down to avoid hitting a pedestrian, this could form the basis of a negligence claim. There are a number of elements that must be demonstrated in any negligence claim.
- The defendant owed the plaintiff a legal duty of care.
- The defendant breached that duty of care.
- The breach was the proximate cause of the plaintiff’s injuries.
- The plaintiff sustained damages.
When a driver is negligent and kills a pedestrian, they can be held at fault through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Los Angeles Pedestrian Accident
We at TorkLaw extend our deepest condolences to the family of Karina Melchor. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to police. There needs to be a thorough investigation for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about a South Los Angeles pedestrian accident? Our team of pedestrian safety advocates are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. You can reach out to us anytime at (888) 441-4991.
