Acton, CA (June 21, 2024) – Hector Aranda, 22, tragically lost his life in a hit-and-run incident on the 14 Freeway in Acton.
Accident Details: California Highway Patrol officers received reports of a three-vehicle crash involving a Nissan Altima, a Honda Pilot SUV, and a tow truck. The driver of the Honda Pilot, who was receiving assistance from the tow truck on the right shoulder, was standing outside the vehicle along with the tow truck driver when the collision occurred. The Nissan Altima collided with the rear of the Honda Pilot, propelling it into the pedestrians. Unfortunately, Aranda was killed.
Investigation: The driver of the Nissan Altima, a 17-year-old juvenile, fled the scene on foot but was later apprehended at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital. No charges have been announced as of now.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant examination. In hit-and-run accidents, fleeing the scene of an accident tends to indicate liability for the collision. The juvenile driver, in this case, faces significant legal repercussions not only for the initial crash but also for leaving the scene of the accident. Determining liability will involve examining the 17-year-old driver’s behavior. Factors such as speed, adherence to traffic laws, impairment, and potential distractions (e.g., cell phone use) will be scrutinized. Additionally, the state of the road and visibility conditions might be relevant to understanding the driver’s actions. The tow truck company’s safety protocols will be examined. Ensuring proper lighting and warning signals during roadside assistance is crucial to prevent such tragedies. Were the necessary precautions in place to protect both the disabled vehicle and the pedestrians? Depending on the outcome of the investigation, Aranda’s family may be able to file a wrongful death claim for their loss.
My sincerest condolences are with the friends and family of Hector Aranda during this difficult time.
Source: Hometown Station