Monterey Park, CA (August 20, 2024) – On Tuesday, a 94-year-old man was tragically struck and killed by a vehicle in Monterey Park. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner has identified the victim as Sung Sungchang.
Accident Details: The accident occurred around 11 a.m. in the 100 block of South Atlantic Boulevard. According to the Monterey Park Police Department, Sungchang was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver involved in the collision, an adult male, remained at the scene and cooperated with the investigation. Authorities have stated that alcohol and drugs do not appear to be factors in the crash. The driver’s identity has not been released.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination.
Driver’s Duty of Care: Drivers must exercise a duty of care towards pedestrians. An investigation would likely focus on whether the driver was speeding, distracted, or otherwise negligent at the time of the accident. Determining whether the driver adhered to traffic laws, such as yielding to pedestrians, would be crucial.
Visibility and Road Conditions: The time and location of the incident also play a significant role. An inquiry into the visibility conditions on South Atlantic Boulevard at the time of the crash could provide insights into whether external factors contributed to the accident. Were there any obstructions, poor lighting, or road design issues that might have impaired the driver’s ability to see Sungchang?
If it is determined that the driver’s negligence caused the crash, Sungchang’s family may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim. Such a claim could help the family recover damages for their loss, including funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other associated costs.
My sincerest condolences are with the family and friends of Sung Sungchang during this difficult time.
Source: My News LA