Long Beach, CA (August 16, 2024) – On August 16, 2024, a tragic collision occurred at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Atlantic Avenue in Long Beach, resulting in the death of 53-year-old Maria Concepcion Martinez.
Accident Details: The crash occurred around 12:15 a.m. and involved two vehicles: a Mazda driven by a 24-year-old woman and a Toyota driven by a 63-year-old man. The Mazda was traveling westbound on Atlantic Avenue when it struck the side of the Toyota. When officers from the Long Beach Police Department arrived at the scene, they found Martinez trapped in the Toyota. Despite rescue efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Three other passengers in the Toyota sustained minor injuries and were treated at a nearby hospital. The driver of the Toyota was also hospitalized, though his condition remains unclear. The driver of the Mazda, who sustained minor injuries, cooperated with investigators before being taken to the hospital for treatment.
Investigation: The cause of the collision is still under investigation. Speed and driving under the influence are reportedly being examined as possible contributing factors. It remains unknown which vehicle had the right of way at the time of the crash.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that in cases like this, where the circumstances of the collision are still unclear, a thorough investigation is crucial to determine liability. Here are some key aspects that should be closely examined:
Determination of Fault: Establishing which vehicle had the right of way is essential. Traffic cameras, witness statements, and any available dashcam footage could be pivotal in clarifying this issue.
Speed Analysis: Investigators will likely conduct a detailed speed analysis of both vehicles to determine whether excessive speed was a factor. This investigation could examine factors such as skid marks and vehicle damage.
Impairment Evaluation: Given that driving under the influence is being investigated as a potential factor, toxicology reports for both drivers will be crucial. Even if one or both drivers were not legally impaired, any presence of alcohol or drugs could influence liability determinations.
Possible Claims: The family of Maria Concepcion Martinez deserves a full accounting of what led to this devastating loss. Depending on the investigation’s outcome, Martinez’s family may be able to file a wrongful death claim against the negligent party who caused the accident. Similarly, injured individuals may be able to file a personal injury claim.
I offer my sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Maria Concepcion Martinez during this difficult time. I wish the injured individuals a fast recovery.
Source: Patch