Manuel Martinez, 40, was killed in a Los Angeles car accident after he was struck by a car while changing a tire on the freeway. According to a news report in The Signal, Martinez had stopped his Ford Explorer SUV on the side of the Interstate 5, in Valencia, the night of March 28, 2010, when a Toyota driven by 36-year-old Mario R. Rodriguez deviated from the number three lane to the shoulder and collided with the Explorer. Both Martinez and the SUV were knocked down an embankment. The SUV landed on top of Martinez and he died at the scene. California Highway Patrol officials said Rodriguez was seriously injured.

I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Manuel Martinez for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. My heart also goes out to Mario Rodriguez who has apparently sustained severe injuries in this crash. Please keep these victims and their families in your prayers.

Los Angeles Car Accident Statistics

According to CHP's 2008 traffic accident statistics, 11 fatalities and 552 injuries were reported as a result of car accidents in the Santa Clarita area. In Los Angeles County as a whole, 667 deaths and 52,229 injuries occurred due to car accidents during the same year.

What Caused this Fatal Crash?

Based on this news report, it is not clear why Rodriguez's Toyota veered off the roadway and struck Martinez who appears to have been changing the tire on the freeway's shoulder. There are several questions here. Was Rodriguez under the influence of drugs or alcohol? Was there a vehicle defect or a mechanical malfunction that caused Rodriguez to lose control? Was Rodriguez distracted, speeding or driving recklessly? I trust CHP officials are investigating these and other issues in order to determine how or why this fatal crash occurred.

Liability Issues

If this collision is determined to have been Rodriguez's fault, then he could be held liable for Martinez's wrongful death. If this accident was caused by an auto product defect, then the auto maker could be held liable. Where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased car accident victims can file wrongful death claims seeking compensation to cover funeral expenses, lost future earnings, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages. The best Los Angeles personal injury attorneys will always offer a free and comprehensive consultation to injured victims and their families.

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

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