[05-20-2020] Los Angeles, CA – One Pedestrian Dead After Getting Struck by a Vehicle in Long Beach

A homeless pedestrian identified as Stacey Finley was killed after getting struck by an unidentified driver in Long Beach on Wednesday, May 20th.

According to the initial reports from local authorities, the fatal pedestrian accident occurred at around 1:40 p.m. in Woodruff Avenue and Willow Street.

The victim was walking in Woodruff Avenue’s southbound lanes when an unidentified vehicle trailing in the same direction struck her. The driver reportedly struck the victim from behind as she was walking.

The victim was pronounced dead at the scene; she was 42 years old.

Fatal Pedestrian Crash Investigation is Underway

The Long Beach Police Department is currently attempting to determine the cause and the circumstances that led to the crash through the official investigation. Witnesses that can provide additional helpful information about the fatal accident are urged to call 562-570-7355, or Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS.

Pedestrians are more vulnerable to the dangers on the road in comparison to passengers in a private vehicle. Passengers of private cars are protected by seatbelts and airbags, which can decrease the fatality rate of an accident while pedestrians are not as protected from the dangers on the road. Pedestrians currently make up a large percentage of traffic fatalities in the past 33 years. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, pedestrian fatalities in the U.S. have increased by 27 percent from 2007-2016 while other traffic-related deaths decreased by 14 percent.

When facing cases like this, it’s vital to have a well-versed Los Angeles accident attorney specializing in fatal pedestrian accidents to conduct an independent investigation. Attorneys have the resources to interview essential witnesses, review related surveillance footage from the scene of the crash, and obtain the liable party’s phone and texting records. All possible contributing factors, such as road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting, must be considered and thoroughly examined during the independent investigation.

I WAS IN AN ACCIDENT

Los Angeles Wrongful Death Attorney for Victims of Fatal Pedestrian Accidents

While waiting for the results of the official investigation, the victim’s family is entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim with their attorney’s help.

Through the wrongful death claim, the victim’s family can seek compensation for the damages (such as loss of companionship and income, funeral expenses, pain and suffering, and emotional distress) caused by the fatal accident.

Attorneys can serve as a compassionate, helpful legal guide during this difficult time for the grieving family. They will vigorously fight for their client’s rights and best interests while ensuring that the liable party will be held accountable for their negligence. Attorneys can also negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of their clients to make sure that they are compensated fairly.

If you have a nagging suspicion that someone is to blame for the death or injury of your spouse or family member, contact Arash Law. We have the resources you need to pursue justice for wrongful death and the experience to ensure that you get fair compensation. We’re conveniently located throughout California, with offices in Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Francisco, Riverside, Orange County, and San Diego, and are happy to visit you at your home or office. Call (888) 488-1391 for a FREE Consultation with a wrongful death attorney in California.