Irwindale, CA (October 1, 2024) – A tragic accident occurred on the westbound Foothill (210) Freeway at Irwindale Avenue on Tuesday, where 39-year-old Samuel Stultz lost his life after being struck by a vehicle.
Accident Details: According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the incident was reported around 2:40 p.m. Stultz was running across the freeway when the collision occurred, though it remains unclear what led him to be on the roadway. Further details surrounding the circumstances are still under investigation.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that a thorough investigation is necessary to uncover the full details of the accident.
- Stultz’s Actions: Since Stultz was running across a major freeway, the factors that could have led to this incident are critical to determining liability. Did a nearby accident or other event prompt him to cross the freeway? Was there a medical emergency?
- Driver’s Actions: It will also be essential to examine the driver’s role in the collision. Was the driver speeding, impaired, or distracted? The answers to these questions will be central to any determination of liability.
- Road Conditions: Investigators will also examine road conditions to determine whether any hazards or defects contributed to the crash. If so, the local municipality in charge of maintaining the roads may be implicated.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Vehicle defects or malfunctions can also lead to accidents. If an issue is discovered during an investigation, the vehicle manufacturer or service provider may be liable.
Wrongful Death: If it is found that negligence played a role in this accident, the family may have grounds to file a wrongful death lawsuit. A wrongful death claim could help hold the responsible party accountable and provide compensation to cover funeral costs, emotional pain, and other damages.
Comparative Negligence: Stultz may be found partially liable because he ran out in the middle of the freeway. However, this does not mean that his family cannot recover compensation. Under California’s comparative negligence laws, his family could recover partial compensation if other parties were also negligent.
My deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of Samuel Stultz during this difficult time. I hope further investigation will provide answers to help the family understand what happened.
Source: My News LA