Pasadena, CA (January 5, 2025) – On the morning of Sunday, January 5, 2025, a catastrophic multi-vehicle collision caused by a wrong-way driver occurred on the westbound Ventura (134) Freeway in Pasadena, near North San Rafael Avenue.
Accident Details: According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), a vehicle entered the freeway via the San Rafael Avenue off-ramp, driving eastbound in the westbound lanes. The collision involved a white sedan, a silver minivan, and two additional unidentified vehicles. The impact caused at least one vehicle to burst into flames. Emergency responders were dispatched at 8:15 a.m.
Tragically, two lives were lost in the crash. One victim, identified by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office as 31-year-old William Yost, died at the scene. A second victim succumbed to injuries at a hospital, though their identity has not yet been released. Three additional individuals sustained injuries and were transported to a nearby trauma center for treatment.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that this tragic crash raises several critical issues.
- Driver Negligence: Driving the wrong way on a freeway demonstrates negligence. The wrong-way driver’s actions violated traffic laws and created a foreseeable risk of catastrophic harm to other road users.
- Mechanical Function: Investigators may need to assess whether mechanical failures in the wrong-way driver’s vehicle, such as brake or steering malfunctions, contributed to the incident.
- Municipal Liability: The design and signage of the San Rafael Avenue off-ramp will likely be scrutinized. Questions may arise about whether adequate measures were in place to prevent wrong-way entries, such as prominent “Do Not Enter” or “Wrong Way” signs and pavement markings. The municipality responsible for road maintenance may bear liability if deficiencies are found.
The families of William Yost and the other deceased victim may be able to pursue wrongful death claims against the wrong-way driver or other liable parties. These claims can seek compensation for loss of companionship, emotional distress, and funeral expenses. The injured victims may be entitled to file personal injury claims for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
I extend my deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of William Yost and the second victim who lost their lives in this tragedy. My thoughts are also with the injured individuals as they recover.
Source: My News LA