Apple Valley, CA (June 15, 2024) – A devastating accident at the intersection of State Highway 18 and Central Road in Apple Valley led to the tragic death of 28-year-old Markell Lister.
Accident Details: The collision involved a Ford Fiesta, driven by Lister, and an Audi SQ5, driven by 27-year-old Konstanti Markrygiannis. According to preliminary reports, the Audi, traveling eastbound on State Highway 18, had the right of way with a green light when it collided with the Ford Fiesta, which was moving northbound on Central Road at a high rate of speed through a red light. Following the impact, the Fiesta rolled over multiple times. Both drivers sustained injuries and were transported to a local hospital, where Lister succumbed to his injuries.
Investigation: The authorities urge anyone with information to contact the Apple Valley Sheriff’s Station at (760) 240-7400 or Sheriff’s Dispatch at (760) 956-5001. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be directed to We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78CRIME (27463) or through the We-Tip website. As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant examination.
Right of Way and Traffic Violations: The surveillance video indicates that the Ford Fiesta entered the intersection against a red light, which is a significant traffic violation. Lister’s high rate of speed at the time of the collision also raises concerns about potential reckless driving. These actions could indicate negligence on Lister’s part. However, it is essential to consider whether any contributing factors, such as visibility issues or mechanical failures, played a role in his decision to proceed against the light or speed.
Mechanical Failure: Both vehicles should be inspected. The examination will determine if there was a defect in Lister’s vehicle that made it impossible for him to slow down or brake appropriately. Similarly, Markrygiannis’s vehicle should be checked to see if a defect prevented him from avoiding the crash.
Wrongful Death and Comparative Negligence: For Lister’s family, understanding the full context of the accident is essential. Any negligence on Lister’s part does not prevent his family from filing a wrongful death claim and recovering compensation if other parties’ negligence also contributed to the accident. However, compensation may be reduced in accordance with California’s comparative negligence laws.
My sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Markell Lister during this tragic and difficult time. I wish Konstanti Markrygiannis a speedy recovery as well.
Source: Victor Valley News Group