Ismael Fuentes, of Indio, Died In Car Accident With Pickup Truck By The Intersection of Avenue 48 and Oasis Street
INDIO, CALIFORNIA (May 28, 2022) – A 13-year-old student at Colonel Mitchell Paige Middle School identified as Ismael Fuentes was killed in a car accident by Avenue 48 and Oasis Street.
Riverside County police officials are saying that the collision took place around 8:22 p.m. on Sunday. Ismael Fuentes was walking when he was hit by a pickup truck at the intersection.
First responders rushed to the scene of the collision in order to help the victim. Despite life-saving measures, Ismael Fuentes did not survive the collision.
A spokesperson for the Desert Sands Unified School District Community took to social media to express their condolences. A full investigation into the crash remains ongoing.
Liability In Indio Pedestrian Accidents
Car accidents remain one of the leading causes of serious injury and death for children. According to the Centers for Disease Control, “One in five children (20.4%) under the age of 15 killed in crashes were pedestrians in 2020. However, 17% of people aged 15 and older killed in crashes were pedestrians.” Pedestrian accidents are nearly always preventable and typically involve some amount of human error.
- Pedestrian accidents tend to happen during the early morning and late evening hours when visibility is reduced.
- Pedestrian collisions tend to take place when drivers are intoxicated.
- Pedestrian collisions tend to occur when drivers are fatigued.
All drivers must use caution to avoid hitting pedestrians. They must be particularly cautious around children. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21950, the driver of a vehicle shall yield the right of way to any pedestrian crossing in a lawfully marked crosswalk. Even if a pedestrian is outside a crosswalk, drivers must use vigilance to avoid hitting them. When a driver fails to exercise due care and strikes a pedestrian, this could form the basis of a negligence claim.
Pickup trucks are often used for commercial purposes. This could include hauling produce, construction or other endeavors. If the driver of a pickup truck was working when they hit a pedestrian, their employer could be held at fault. Employers are typically vicariously liable for the negligent actions of their employees. There are a number of steps that should be taken after any pedestrian collision.
- Surveillance footage of the accident should be sought.
- It should be understood if there is a history of collisions at the crash site.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- A thorough, independent investigation should be conducted.
When a driver is negligent and kills a pedestrian, they can be held to account through a civil claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. Sadly, though, insurance companies will often fight hard to deny any responsibility for a collision. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating An Indio Pedestrian Accident
We at TorkLaw extend our deepest condolences to the family of Ismael Fuentes. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to police. It is our sincere hope that there is some accountability for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about an Indio pedestrian accident? Our team of pedestrian safety advocates are hereto 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. Whether you just have questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (888) 441-4991. Se habla español.
