Santa Ana, CA (January 3, 2025) – On Friday evening, January 3, 2025, 63-year-old George Estrada Tellez of Costa Mesa was fatally struck by two vehicles in Santa Ana.
Accident Details: The incident occurred around 6 p.m. George Estrada Tellez was walking in the eastbound lanes of 1st Street near Center Street when struck. Both drivers remained at the scene to assist and cooperated fully with the investigation. Tellez was transported to a local hospital in critical condition but later succumbed to his injuries. Authorities have stated that neither drugs nor alcohol are suspected factors for the drivers involved. The Santa Ana Police Department urges anyone with additional information to contact detectives.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that this tragic incident raises critical legal questions regarding liability and pedestrian safety. Investigators will likely evaluate multiple factors to determine what caused the accident, including:
- Driver Responsibility: Investigators will likely review their speed, attentiveness, and adherence to traffic laws at the time of the collision. Even if a pedestrian is outside a crosswalk, drivers must take reasonable steps to avoid collisions.
- Road Conditions: The layout and safety features of 1st Street, such as street lighting, signage, and visibility, may also be examined to understand the circumstances leading to the crash. Any safety issues or failed maintenance may indicate the municipality’s liability.
Tellez’s family may consider pursuing a wrongful death claim if evidence suggests negligence caused the collisions. This claim could allow them to recover funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and damages for emotional distress. While drivers must exercise due care to avoid pedestrians, Tellez’s walking in the roadway (and not the sidewalk or crosswalk) could influence liability. Under comparative negligence, if Tellez is found partially responsible for the accident, the family’s recoverable compensation may be reduced proportionately to the percentage of his fault.
I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of George Estrada Tellez during this difficult time.
Fuente: CBS News