Spring Valley, CA (January 2, 2024) Dale Alan Pumphrey, 62, from El Cajon, was a tow truck driver. He sadly lost his life in Spring Valley when a vehicle swerved onto the shoulder and hit him on New Year’s Eve. The fatal collision occurred at approximately 8:00 p.m. on southbound State Route 125, according to the California Highway Patrol.
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Pumphrey was on the shoulder of the highway loading a car onto his tow truck, just south of Jamacha Road, when a Toyota Prius struck him. The California Highway Patrol said the 60-year-old driver went off the highway and onto the shoulder, for reasons still unknown, at the time of the accident. Officers reported that he crashed into the back of Pumhrey’s tow truck and then hit Pumphrey.
First responders arrived at the scene and performed life-saving measures in an attempt to say Pumphrey’s life. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead at the scene, authorities said. He wasn’t identified by the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office until late on Monday, January 1st.
Officers are investigating this accident and hope to understand why the Prius went off the roadway. They do not believe that drugs or alcohol were a factor in this fatal crash.
Liability In Spring Valley 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 Spring Valley
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of Dale Alan Pumphrey during this time of loss. 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.