Riverside, CA (September 29, 2024) – A tragic series of crashes on the eastbound Riverside (91) Freeway west of Adams Street resulted in the death of pedestrian Alfredo Verganza-Lucas and left another person seriously injured.
Accident Details: According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the crashes began with a collision involving a Jeep Patriot and a Kia Sportage. Both vehicles sustained minor damage, and the Jeep was disabled in the lanes. The Jeep’s occupants, including 21-year-old Alfredo Verganza-Lucas, exited the vehicle and became pedestrians on the freeway.
Shortly after, a commercial tractor-trailer traveling eastbound attempted to avoid the disabled Jeep, causing the driver to lose control and overturn the truck. Another vehicle, a Toyota Camry, also swerved to avoid the Jeep but tragically struck Verganza-Lucas, who was standing in the roadway. He suffered fatal injuries at the scene.
The Toyota also collided with the Jeep, pushing it forward and injuring another pedestrian who had been standing in front of the vehicle. This individual was taken to a local hospital with major injuries.
Investigation: The driver of the Toyota was uninjured and was determined not to be under the influence. However, authorities report that drivers of the Jeep and Kia were allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol. Verganza-Lucas was a passenger in the Jeep.
Both drivers of the Jeep and the Kia were arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. The CHP continues its investigation, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact their Accident Investigation Unit.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that this tragic incident raises several important legal questions, particularly regarding liability. In cases involving multiple collisions and multiple drivers under the influence, the situation becomes complex.
Alleged DUI: The fact that both the Jeep and Kia drivers were allegedly intoxicated suggests potential criminal and civil liability. DUI laws in California are strict, and anyone found guilty of driving under the influence can face severe penalties, including incarceration, fines, and loss of driving privileges.
Other Factors: Investigators should also consider factors such as the driving behavior of the commercial tractor-trailer and the Toyota, the road conditions, and the mechanical condition of all vehicles involved.
Possible Claims: For the family of Alfredo Verganza-Lucas, there may be grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit against the drivers of the Jeep and Kia since their alleged intoxication caused the initial collision that set off the chain of events that led to Verganza-Lucas’s death. A wrongful death lawsuit allows family members to seek compensation for funeral costs, lost financial support, and emotional suffering.
Additionally, the injured pedestrian may be able to pursue a personal injury claim to recover damages related to their serious injuries, including medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family of Alfredo Verganza-Lucas during this incredibly difficult time. I hope they can find solace and support as they seek the truth about what happened.
Source: My News LA