San Mateo, CA (September 23, 2023) A California Highway Patrol officer struck and killed a pedestrian on State Highway 92 on Wednesday night. CHP Capt. Jason Cavett said the man ran across the highway directly in front of the officer’s patrol car.
The officer was transporting another man for suspicion of driving under the influence when the accident occurred. Cavett said the officer was heading east on Highway 92 in San Mateo around 10:00 p.m. when a male pedestrian appeared on the shoulder, just south of the Delaware Street off-ramp. Without warning, the pedestrian began running across the highway, directly in front of the officer’s car.
Have you or someone you know been injured in an accident? Reach out to us at any time at 844-966-0965
The officers had no time to stop or avoid the pedestrian and ended up hitting him. He landed in the grassy area in the median, according to Cavett. The officer quickly pulled over to the right shoulder but he didn’t leave the patrol car because he had another suspect in custody. He also said the traffic was fairly heavy and moving so fast that it was risky to try and cross on foot. He radioed for assistance.
Paramedics arrived on the scene and tried to revive the pedestrian, but they were unsuccessful. Investigators are trying to determine why the man was running across the highway and other circumstances that led to the accident.
Liability In San Mateo 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 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 pain and suffering. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the factors of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Pedestrian Accident In San Mateo
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the pedestrian killed in this collision. 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 attorneys 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 (844) 966-0965