South Los Angeles, CA (October 7, 2024) – On the evening of Monday, October 7, 2024, a tragic hit-and-run collision claimed the life of 62-year-old Denise Barkus in South Los Angeles.
Accident Details: The incident occurred at approximately 8:50 p.m. on Imperial Highway near Parmelee Avenue. A two-toned silver or white sedan struck Barkus, who was crossing the street outside a crosswalk. The driver fled the scene without rendering aid and has yet to be apprehended. Authorities are continuing their search for the suspect and have announced a standing reward of $50,000 for any information leading to the driver’s identification.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination.
Hit-and-Run as Negligence: In addition to being a criminal offense, fleeing an accident scene can qualify as negligence in civil law. Drivers are legally obligated to stop after an accident, render aid to victims, and provide their information. Failing to fulfill these responsibilities typically indicates a breach of the duty of care that every driver owes to others on the road. Even though the victim, Denise Barkus, was walking outside of a crosswalk, the driver still had a legal duty to take reasonable steps to avoid hitting her.
Wrongful Death Claim: The family of Denise Barkus may be able to file a wrongful death claim against the driver once they are identified. With this claim, they may be able to recover damages such as funeral expenses, lost income, and the emotional suffering caused by the untimely death of a loved one.
Comparative Negligence: California is a comparative negligence state. If the victim is found partially at fault for the accident, recoverable compensation may be reduced based on that percentage of fault. If Denise Barkus is determined to have contributed to the incident by crossing outside a crosswalk, her family’s potential recovery could be diminished accordingly.
My deepest condolences go out to Denise Barkus’s family. This tragic and senseless loss has undoubtedly left her loved ones devastated. I hope they find some sense of closure in this challenging time.
Source: CBS News