Lucerne Valley, CA (June 20, 2024) – On the evening of June 20, 2024, Kristina Kimsey, a 42-year-old resident of Apple Valley, tragically lost her life in a head-on collision.
Accident Details: According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) incident logs, the accident occurred around 6:25 p.m. Kimsey was riding a motorcycle northbound when she was struck by a southbound Toyota driven by a 43-year-old Apple Valley man on Old Woman Springs Road (Highway 247) near Visalia Avenue.
Investigation: The CHP’s preliminary investigation indicates that the driver of the Toyota attempted to overtake slower-moving traffic by crossing the solid yellow line, directly into Kimsey’s path, resulting in the devastating collision. Despite the immediate response from paramedics, Kimsey succumbed to her injuries at the scene. The Toyota’s driver sustained minor injuries and received treatment on-site.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find this tragic incident raises several critical questions that warrant thorough investigation. Drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely and within the bounds of the law. By allegedly crossing the solid yellow line to overtake traffic, the driver of the Toyota may have breached this duty of care, constituting negligence. Establishing this breach is crucial for determining legal responsibility for the accident. Investigators should consider whether any external factors, such as road conditions, visibility, or mechanical failures, may have contributed to the driver’s decision to cross into oncoming traffic. If negligence is established, Kimsey’s family may be able to file a wrongful death claim and recover compensation for the loss of their loved one, including funeral and burial expenses.
My sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Kristina Kimsey during this difficult time. Her family has set up a GoFundMe account to help pay for funeral expenses. Please contribute if you are able.
Source: Victor Valley News Group