Senior Driver Involved in Fatal Redondo Beach Pedestrian Accident

Yonsheng Hu, 48, of China, was struck and fatally injured in a Redondo Beach pedestrian accident, which officials say, involved an 85-year-old driver. According to a news report in the Daily Breeze, investigators are trying to determine why 85-year-old Lois Claiborne veered off the street in a white Toyota Camry traveling west in the right lane of the street before noon Oct. 18. The vehicle swerved at the corner of Francisca Avenue striking Hu, who was walking on the sidewalk. The car landed on its roof in a parking lot after hitting a short cinder block wall.

Ongoing Investigation

Hu was pronounced dead at the scene and Claiborne was hospitalized with injuries that were not life threatening. Police have not announced any citations or charges and are still piecing together what happened. Investigators have already said they don’t believe speed, alcohol or drugs were factors. They do know based on preliminary investigation that the driver was trying to avoid traffic backed up in the number two lane of Torrance Boulevard. Investigators have yet to analyze skid marks, eyewitness accounts and any potential mechanical failure before they can pinpoint the cause or forward the case to the district attorney’s office. They said Claiborne has a clean driving record.

Was Mechanical Malfunction a Factor?

Based on this news report, it appears that Claiborne’s Toyota Camry swerved, went out of control and struck the pedestrian who was on the sidewalk. We trust investigators are looking into a possible mechanical malfunction that caused the elderly driver to lose control of the vehicle. In addition, we also hope they will look into whether the Camry involved here was part of a vehicle safety recall for sudden acceleration, brake defects or any other type of auto defect. It is also important to look into whether the driver still has the skill, ability and reflexes to continue driving.

Potential Wrongful Death Claim

In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased victims can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for damages including medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, loss of love and companionship and pain and suffering. In addition to at-fault drivers, automakers could also be held liable if it is determined that an auto defect caused or contributed to the fatal accident. An experienced Los Angeles car accident lawyer who is also well-versed in auto defect cases will help preserve all pertinent evidence in the case and help ensure that families’ rights are protected every step of the way.