Victorville, CA (January 17, 2025) – On January 17, 2025, 61-year-old Richard Metcalf, a resident of San Diego, tragically lost his life in a pedestrian accident on US Highway 395 near Cactus Road in Victorville.
Accident Details: Authorities report that around 7:20 p.m., Metcalf was struck by a white Cadillac Escalade in the number two northbound lane of Highway 395. Emergency responders pronounced him deceased at the scene. The driver of the Escalade remained on-site and is cooperating with the ongoing investigation led by the Victorville Major Accident Investigation Team.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination. This incident underscores the dangers pedestrians face on high-speed roadways like Highway 395. Factors such as inadequate lighting, vehicle speed, and pedestrian visibility often contribute to such tragedies. Investigators will likely explore whether these or other variables, such as driver behavior or roadway design, played a role in this accident.
Metcalf’s family may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim if evidence reveals any negligence, such as inadequate lighting or failure to reduce speed. Investigators will consider whether the roadway was reasonably safe for pedestrian use, whether the driver exercised due care, and whether other parties may share responsibility. If successful, this claim would allow his family to recover funeral expenses, lost companionship, and other damages from the incident.
I offer my deepest condolences to Richard Metcalf’s family and loved ones during this unimaginably difficult time.
Source: Victor Valley News Group