Garberville, CA (September 22, 2023) A pedestrian was killed in a hit-and-run on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, in Garberville. The California Highway Patrol said they believe a DUI driver was involved. The accident happened around 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday on the west roadway edge of US-101. The California Highway Patrol said it was just south of the Richardson Grove State Park entrance.
Officers arrived at the scene where they learned that a hit-and-run driver had struck the pedestrian. Witnesses told officers that the pedestrian stopped on the dirt shoulder. As he stood, waiting for a family member, a black 2010 Toyota Tundra was traveling south and swerved off the roadway and onto the shoulder where the pedestrian stood.
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The Toyota crashed into the pedestrian. Instead of stopping to help the pedestrian, witnesses said the driver of the Toyota fled the scene. He sped away, continuing south on US-101. Shortly after the hit-and-run, and several witnesses at the scene provided detailed information that allowed CHP to identify the pickup involved.
Everyone was on the look out for the black Toyota Tundra. Once spotted, the CHP were notified and attempted to stop the suspect. He refused to stop, though, and instead, fled northbound. He tried to escape via a private driveway but found himself trapped. The driver, identified as 53-year-old Earl Castillo from Leggett, was arrested. He was found to be driving while under the influence and was booked into the Humboldt County Jail.
The pedestrian’s identity has not been publicly identified, however, officers said they are 67 years old and from Carmichael.
Liability In Garberville 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 Garberville
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the person 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
