Los Angeles, CA (February 24, 2026) – A pedestrian was killed on Monday, February 23, following a collision on the Ventura (101) Freeway in the Calabasas-Agoura Hills area. The incident occurred shortly before 6:00 a.m. on the eastbound side of the freeway near Lost Hills Road.
According to the California Highway Patrol, a preliminary investigation indicates that a semi-truck in the eastbound lanes struck a pedestrian. Emergency responders, including personnel from the Los Angeles County Fire Department, arrived at the scene and confirmed that the pedestrian was pronounced deceased.
The person’s identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin. Authorities reported that the semi-truck driver remained at the scene following the collision.
Multiple lanes of the freeway were shut down for more than three hours while investigators examined the crash site and cleared the roadway.
We extend our sincere condolences to the victim’s family and loved ones during this challenging time.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Los Angeles?
Under California law, certain surviving family members may have the right to file a wrongful death claim after a fatal pedestrian accident in Los Angeles. Generally, the deceased person’s spouse or registered domestic partner has the primary right to bring a claim. If there is no surviving spouse or partner, the decedent’s children may be eligible to file.
If the deceased had no surviving spouse or children, other individuals who would inherit under California’s intestate succession laws may have standing. This can include parents or other close relatives, depending on the family structure.
In some cases, those who were financially dependent on the deceased, such as stepchildren or a putative spouse, may also qualify.
A putative spouse is someone who believed in good faith that they were legally married to the deceased, even if the marriage was later determined to be invalid.
Only one wrongful death lawsuit may generally be filed on behalf of all eligible heirs, which means all qualifying family members must be identified and included in the action. Courts may review family relationships, financial dependency, and other relevant factors when determining who has legal standing.
In addition to establishing eligibility, families must also comply with California’s statute of limitations, which typically requires a wrongful death claim to be filed within two years from the date of death. Failing to meet this deadline can result in the loss of the right to pursue compensation.
Damages in a wrongful death case may include funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, loss of household services, and loss of companionship and guidance. Because these cases often involve complex legal and procedural requirements, careful documentation and timely action are essential.
Because wrongful death claims are subject to strict filing deadlines and legal requirements, families often benefit from speaking with a car accident lawyer, who can help them understand their rights and options.
Our legal team at Saleh Law Group reviews fatal accident cases throughout California. To discuss your legal options, contact Saleh Law Group at (949) 431-6371.
