A tragic incident on US 87 in Lubbock, Texas, has resulted in the death of a 30-year-old man. The incident occurred around 11:15 p.m. on a Friday night when the man, identified as Brandon Guerrero, was struck by a vehicle after exiting his own disabled car.
According to reports, the man was driving northbound on US 87, north of 98th Street, when he was involved in a single-vehicle collision in his 2018 Ford Escape. The crash left his vehicle incapacitated in the northbound lanes. Following the initial accident, the man exited his vehicle and proceeded to walk into the southbound lanes of US 87. While in the southbound lanes, he was struck by a 2017 Ford Mustang that was traveling south.
The pedestrian succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The driver of the Mustang sustained minor injuries.
Legal and Safety Considerations
This unfortunate event brings to light several important legal and safety considerations for drivers and pedestrians alike. When a vehicle becomes disabled on a roadway, it creates a hazardous situation for everyone involved.
Duty of Care: All drivers have a duty of care to operate their vehicles safely and responsibly. This includes maintaining awareness of their surroundings, obeying traffic laws, and taking precautions to avoid collisions. Similarly, pedestrians also have a responsibility to exercise caution and be mindful of traffic when walking near roadways.
Negligence: In personal injury law, negligence occurs when a person or entity fails to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm to another person. In this case, several factors could potentially contribute to a finding of negligence. For example, was the driver of the Mustang driving at a safe speed for the conditions? Were they distracted or impaired in any way? Did the pedestrian take reasonable precautions when walking on the roadway? These are the types of questions that would need to be investigated to determine liability.
Pedestrian Rights: Pedestrians have the right to safely use public roadways, but they also have a responsibility to exercise caution and follow traffic laws. When a pedestrian is injured or killed as a result of someone else’s negligence, they or their family may be entitled to compensation for their losses.
Insurance Implications: Following a car accident or pedestrian collision, insurance companies will typically investigate the incident to determine who was at fault and to what extent each party was responsible. This investigation may involve gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records. Depending on the circumstances, multiple insurance policies may be involved, including the at-fault driver’s liability insurance, the injured party’s own insurance coverage (such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage), and potentially other sources of coverage.
Safety Recommendations: To minimize the risk of similar tragedies, it’s essential for drivers and pedestrians to prioritize safety at all times. Here are some recommendations:
- If your vehicle becomes disabled on a roadway, activate your hazard lights immediately.
- If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic lanes.
- If you must exit your vehicle, do so cautiously and wear bright or reflective clothing.
- Stay aware of your surroundings and watch out for oncoming traffic.
- Never walk on a roadway if you can avoid it.
- Drivers should always remain vigilant and drive defensively, especially in areas with pedestrian traffic.
- Avoid distractions while driving, such as texting or talking on the phone.
- Obey speed limits and traffic laws.
The Importance of Legal Guidance
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident or pedestrian collision can be complex, particularly when serious injuries or fatalities are involved. An experienced personal injury attorney can provide valuable guidance and support during this challenging time. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options, investigate the circumstances of the accident, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, pursue a lawsuit to recover compensation for your losses.
A seasoned personal injury lawyer can help you navigate these complex issues and protect your rights. They can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf. They can also negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages.
Commentary from Gosuits Lubbock, Texas Personal Injury Attorney
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of roadways and the importance of exercising caution and responsibility at all times. The complexities surrounding liability and insurance claims in such cases underscore the need for individuals affected by such incidents to seek informed legal guidance. While we cannot provide legal advice, understanding your rights and exploring available legal options is crucial in navigating the aftermath of a personal injury incident. The legal landscape surrounding accidents and personal injury is intricate, demanding a careful assessment of the facts and a thorough understanding of applicable laws.
