Richmond, CA (December 12, 2023) A Richmond resident, 24-year-old Luis Mata, was hit by a Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) train in Richmond. The fatal accident occurred on November 30th.
Officers said they received the call about a train versus pedestrian accident and arrived at the scene, along with paramedics. Paramedics rushed to the victim’s side to give life-saving measures, but he was already deceased. Authorities, sadly, pronounced the victim, identified as Luis Mata, dead at the scene. The Contra Costa County Coroner’s Officer was called and released his identity only after notifying his family first.
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The accident happened as the BART train was approaching the Richmond Station, according to officers. Upon investigating the accident, authorities do not believe there was any foul play involved in this collision.
The crash caused the closure of the train station for about two hours as officers investigated the fatal accident. The Alameda-Contra Costa Transit Distric (AC) Transit buses arrived at the scene to transport passengers to the El Cerrito del Norte station.
Investigators are still trying to figure out why Mata was on the tracks as the train was approaching and why he was tragically killed by the BART train in Richmond.
Liability In Richmond Pedestrian Accidents
Thousands of pedestrians are killed or seriously injured every year in pedestrian accidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control, “An estimated 137,000 pedestrians were treated in the emergency departments for nonfatal crash-related injuries in 2017. Per trip, pedestrians are 1.5 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to be killed in a car crash.” There are a number of factors that could lead to a pedestrian collision including:
–Speeding
–Drunk driving
–Driver distraction
–Inclement weather
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid hitting pedestrians. The family of any victim that died in a pedestrian collision may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and suffering. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Pedestrian Accident In Richmond
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of Luis Mata. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to police. There needs to be some accountability for what happened.
Have you or someone you care about been injured in a car accident? Our team of personal injury lawyers are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need assistance after an accident, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (866) 945-4286.