Long Beach, CA (March 3, 2026) – On Monday, March 2, just before 11:30 a.m., a 2-year-old girl was killed and two other family members were seriously injured after a vehicle reversed onto the front steps of an apartment building at 440 Maine Avenue.

 Authorities said the driver, identified as 55-year-old Lamont Russell, reversed over a curb and struck three people who were sitting on the front steps of the apartment complex: a toddler, her mother, and her young cousin. Police reported that the child was critically injured in the collision.

Two officers immediately transported her to a local hospital in a patrol vehicle, with one officer driving and the other providing life-saving care during the emergency transport. Despite those efforts, the child was pronounced dead a short time later.

The toddler’s mother suffered multiple broken ribs, according to family members, while her cousin sustained a broken leg. Both victims were transported to the hospital by personnel with the Long Beach Fire Department and were listed in stable condition.

Authorities confirmed that the driver remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. It is not yet known whether drugs or alcohol were factors in the crash. The investigation remains ongoing.

We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the child who lost her life in this accident, and we wish a full recovery to those injured.

Who May File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?

Under California law, a wrongful death claim is typically filed by immediate family members. This often includes the surviving spouse or domestic partner and the deceased person’s children.

In certain circumstances, other dependents or legal heirs, such as parents, may also be eligible to bring a claim if they relied on the deceased for financial or emotional support.

A wrongful death claim seeks compensation for damages, including funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and emotional suffering. In situations involving young children, damages may also reflect the profound emotional and relational loss experienced by parents and close family members.

In addition to a wrongful death claim, a separate “survival action” may sometimes be filed on behalf of the deceased’s estate. This type of claim can seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering prior to death, and other losses incurred between the time of injury and passing.

California imposes a two-year statute of limitations for wrongful death claims, meaning eligible parties must file within two years of the date of death. If a government entity were involved, different deadlines could apply.

Since these cases involve strict filing requirements and complex legal standards, seeking timely legal guidance is critical to preserving one’s rights.

Wrongful death cases often require thorough investigation, including accident reconstruction, witness interviews, and review of medical and police records. Acting quickly helps ensure that evidence is preserved and that families have the opportunity to pursue accountability and financial stability during a difficult time.

If you have lost a loved one in a fatal pedestrian or vehicle accident in California, it is important to understand your legal options. An auto accident attorney can evaluate your case, explain your rights, and guide you through every step of the legal process.

To discuss your situation and explore your options, contact Saleh Law Group at (949) 431-6371. Our legal team can provide strong guidance and help you determine the next available steps.

Los Angeles, CA (March 2, 2026) – On Saturday, February 28, around 10 a.m., a man in a wheelchair was seriously injured after a collision involving two vehicles near Nordhoff Street and Orion Avenue in North Hills.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department, an SUV and a pickup truck collided at the intersection, which is controlled only by stop signs. The impact caused the pickup truck to spin out of control, striking the man in the wheelchair and launching him into the air and into a nearby food vendor.

The victim was transported to a local hospital, though his current condition has not been disclosed. It was unclear whether the occupants of either vehicle sustained injuries. Authorities are actively investigating the circumstances of the crash.

We send our best wishes to those involved in the accident, and hope the injured victim makes a full recovery.

How Long Do I Have to File a Pedestrian Accident Claim in California?

Under California law, personal injury claims, including pedestrian accidents, must be filed within two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline can prevent victims from seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related losses.

In some situations, different rules apply. For example, if a government entity is involved, such as a city, county, or state vehicle, victims generally must first file a government claim within six months of the incident. Failure to meet this requirement can bar the right to pursue a lawsuit, making it especially important to act quickly in these cases.

The two-year statute of limitations for pedestrian accidents covers most claims against private individuals or drivers. This time frame allows victims to recover, document injuries, consult medical professionals, and gather evidence about the accident.

However, such a time is not a time to delay action. Accidents involving serious injuries or complex circumstances, like collisions with multiple vehicles, may require additional time for investigation, insurance negotiation, and expert analysis.

As you can see, filing your claim early helps ensure that critical evidence, such as surveillance footage, witness testimony, and accident scene conditions, is preserved.

Additionally, remember that some factors can affect deadlines, such as minors, delayed discovery of injuries, or cases where a government agency is a defendant. Legal counsel can evaluate these circumstances and guide the exact filing window.

This is why you must always bear in mind California’s filing deadlines. Prompt action ensures that victims of pedestrian accidents, including severe cases such as wheelchair collisions, can pursue justice without losing their legal rights.

In addition, working with an auto accident attorney can greatly help your case. An attorney can prepare all necessary documents, file claims on time, and advocate for full compensation while protecting your rights.

Timely legal action not only meets statutory requirements but also increases the likelihood of achieving a favorable outcome, helping you recover financially and focus on your physical and emotional healing.

To discuss your case and explore your options, contact Saleh Law Group at (949) 431-6371.

Van Nuys, CA (February 28, 2026) – A multi-vehicle crash left at least one person hospitalized on Friday, February 27, at the intersection of Sherman Way and Hayvenhurst Avenue. The accident occurred around 4:40 p.m., prompting a large emergency response.

Reports confirmed that at least seven vehicles were involved in the collision. Video from the scene showed several cars pushed sideways across the roadway after the impact. A Metro bus was also stopped nearby as crews worked in the area.

Emergency units rushed to the scene. Paramedics evaluated the victims and transported at least one injured person to a local hospital for further treatment. Officials have not released additional details about the extent of the injuries or whether others were hurt.

Investigators interviewed witnesses and gathered evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding the collision. The Los Angeles Police Department continues to investigate the incident.

Our thoughts are with the injured person, and we wish them a full and steady recovery.

How Is Fault Determined in a Multi-Car Accident in California?

Fault in a California multi-car accident depends on the evidence that explains how the events unfolded. Officers review vehicle positions, impact points, and statements from each driver. Insurance companies also examine available documentation before assigning responsibility.

Chain-reaction crashes often create confusion because several impacts occur within seconds. Vehicles may strike one another in rapid succession. This is why determining who triggered the sequence requires careful analysis.

Injuries from these collisions can range from neck strain to head trauma. Some symptoms appear immediately, while others develop hours later. Medical evaluations help document physical changes after the impact.

California follows a comparative fault system in personal injury cases. More than one driver may share responsibility for the same crash. Financial recovery often reflects each party’s assigned percentage of fault.

Photographs taken at the scene can clarify vehicle angles and roadway conditions. Witness accounts may help confirm the order of impacts. Preserving this information can strengthen later discussions.

Police reports often provide an initial outline of what occurred. Officers record observations and statements from the drivers. These records frequently influence insurance determinations in complex cases.

Insurance adjusters evaluate property damage and injury claims separately. Policy limits may affect how payments are handled. Understanding coverage terms can help reduce confusion during settlement negotiations and claim reviews.

A car accident lawyer can gather and review crash reports, medical records, and other evidence related to the collision. An attorney may also explain how California law applies to shared responsibility and potential compensation.

Our team at Saleh Law Group has experience handling multi-vehicle accident claims across California. Contact our lawyers at (949) 431-6371 to discuss your legal options after a crash.

Los Angeles, CA (February 27, 2026) – A pedestrian was killed in an early-morning collision on Thursday, February 26, at approximately 2:10 a.m. near the intersection of 9th Street and Towne Avenue in downtown Los Angeles.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department, responding officers arrived at the scene and located the victim, a 37-year-old pedestrian, who had sustained fatal injuries after being struck by a vehicle. The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene by Los Angeles city firefighters.

Authorities reported that 22-year-old Orlando Larios was driving a red Nissan Kicks eastbound in the westbound lanes of Ninth Street when he struck a pedestrian walking south on Ninth Street. The circumstances leading up to the collision are under investigation by the LAPD Central Traffic Division.

We extend our sincere condolences to the victim’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.

What Compensation Can Families Pursue After a Pedestrian Wrongful Death in Los Angeles?

Losing a loved one in a pedestrian accident is a tragic and life-changing event. In Los Angeles, families who experience such a loss may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim to recover compensation for the financial and emotional impacts of the accident.

Under California law, a wrongful death claim allows certain surviving family members, typically spouses, domestic partners, children, and sometimes other heirs, to seek damages when a loved one is fatally injured due to someone else’s negligence or unlawful actions. In pedestrian cases, the at-fault driver is usually financially responsible for covering costs related to the accident.

Compensation can include medical expenses incurred before death, funeral and burial costs, and the loss of financial support the deceased would have provided. Families may also pursue damages for non-economic losses, such as the loss of companionship, guidance, emotional support, and the impact on quality of life.

In Los Angeles, many pedestrian fatalities involve factors like alcohol impairment, speeding, or unsafe driving behaviors. Insurance companies typically investigate these claims thoroughly, reviewing police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction data. Families pursuing a claim must document the accident carefully, including medical bills, correspondence with insurers, and records of ongoing financial or emotional impact.

If the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance, additional coverage may exist, such as uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. Legal guidance is crucial to navigate these options effectively and ensure the family receives fair compensation.

Given the complexity of wrongful death claims, working with a wrongful death attorney can help families understand their rights, file claims correctly, and advocate for full compensation. Attorneys can assist in negotiating with insurance companies, evaluating damages, and ensuring that families are not left to handle the process alone.

For families impacted by a fatal pedestrian accident in Los Angeles, seeking professional legal support can provide clarity and peace of mind during an incredibly difficult time. To discuss your case and explore your options, contact Saleh Law Group at (949) 431-6371.

Westminster, CA (February 25, 2026) – A pedestrian was killed in a late-night collision on Tuesday, February 24, at approximately 11:00 p.m. on Bolsa Chica Road, just south of Garden Grove Boulevard.

According to the Westminster Police Department, responding officers arrived at the scene and located the victim, who had sustained critical injuries. The pedestrian was later identified by Orange County coroner’s officials as 51-year-old Dianna May Villalva, who was reported to be transient. She was pronounced deceased as a result of the injuries sustained in the crash.

Authorities stated that the driver involved in the collision remained at the scene and cooperated fully with investigators. Detectives temporarily secured the area while they conducted an on-scene investigation and documented evidence. The circumstances leading up to the collision remain under review.

We extend our sincere condolences to the victim’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.

What Families Should Know About Wrongful Death Claims in Westminster Accidents

Losing a loved one in a pedestrian accident is devastating. In Westminster and throughout California, families facing this type of tragedy often have questions about how insurance coverage works and whether they may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim.

California operates under a fault-based insurance system. This means the driver who caused the pedestrian accident is generally financially responsible for the resulting damages. The at-fault driver’s auto liability insurance may provide compensation for medical expenses incurred before death, funeral and burial costs, and other related financial losses.

In fatal pedestrian cases, certain surviving family members may have the legal right to file a wrongful death claim. Typically, this includes a spouse, domestic partner, or children. If none of these relatives are living, other heirs may qualify depending on the family structure and the circumstances. A wrongful death claim may seek compensation for loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and the emotional impact of the loss.

Insurance companies will usually investigate to determine liability and evaluate the damages being claimed. This process may involve reviewing police reports, medical records, witness statements, and accident reconstruction findings. Because these claims can be complex, particularly when fault is disputed, careful documentation is important.

In some cases, additional coverage may be available. If the driver was uninsured or underinsured, other insurance policies, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, may provide compensation. Each case depends on the available policies and specific facts involved.

Understanding your legal rights after a fatal pedestrian accident in Westminster can help ensure that your family takes the appropriate steps during a very difficult time. Speaking with a wrongful death attorney can provide clarity about eligibility, insurance coverage, and the process for pursuing a claim.

Our legal team at Saleh Law Group reviews pedestrian accident cases throughout California. To discuss your legal options, contact Saleh Law Group at (949) 431-6371.

Los Angeles, CA (February 25, 2026) – Several pedestrians were injured on Tuesday morning, February 24, around 11:45 a.m. after an SUV jumped a sidewalk and collided with a tree near the corner of San Julian Street and E. 8th Street, in the heart of the Flower District.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department and the Los Angeles Fire Department, multiple pedestrians were struck by the SUV. Two victims sustained severe injuries and are reported to be in critical condition, while three others sustained minor injuries and were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Emergency responders arrived quickly to provide medical assistance and secure the scene.

Surveillance footage shows the SUV turning onto 8th Street, crossing lanes of traffic, and driving onto the sidewalk before striking a tree. A 13-year-old boy was thrown to the ground with injuries to his foot and back. 

Traffic in the area was temporarily disrupted as emergency crews responded and ensured pedestrian and driver safety.

It is currently unclear what contributed to the driver’s loss of control. Authorities report that the driver remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. The investigation into the circumstances of the crash is ongoing.

We hope all those injured in this crash make a full and speedy recovery.

What Evidence Should I Collect After a Pedestrian Crash?

Start by taking clear photographs of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, tire marks, the position of pedestrians, and nearby obstacles or hazards. Be sure to capture traffic signals, crosswalks, or street signs that may have contributed to the crash. This visual evidence can play a critical role in establishing the circumstances of the accident.

Medical documentation is also vital. Keep detailed records of hospital visits, diagnostic tests, treatment plans, prescriptions, and follow-up care. Accurate medical records help demonstrate the severity of injuries and are necessary for insurance claims or legal proceedings.

In addition, take and keep notes on pain levels, recovery progress, and limitations in daily activities to provide a clearer picture of the crash’s impact on your life.

Witness statements can strengthen your case further. Obtain contact information from anyone who saw the accident occur, and record their accounts carefully.

If available, surveillance video from nearby businesses, dashcams, or traffic cameras can provide objective evidence of the incident. Collecting multiple sources of information ensures that the sequence of events is well documented and supports your claims effectively.

It’s also important to manage communication with insurance companies carefully. Keep copies of all correspondence and avoid providing recorded statements or signing agreements without fully understanding their implications.

Consult with an auto accident attorney to help you organize all evidence, comply with legal deadlines, and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages resulting from the pedestrian crash.

If you or a loved one were injured in a pedestrian crash in Los Angeles, our legal team at Saleh Law Group is available to review your case. Contact our lawyers today at (949) 431-6371 to discuss your options and ensure your rights are protected.

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.

Van Nuys, CA (February 23, 2026) – A pedestrian was killed in a collision on Monday, February 23, in the Van Nuys neighborhood of Los Angeles. The incident was reported shortly after 6:00 a.m. at the intersection of Balboa Boulevard and Keswick Street.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department, responding officers arrived to find the victim lying in the middle of the roadway. The individual, who has not yet been publicly identified, was pronounced dead at the scene. A red Chevrolet SUV with front-end damage was seen to be stopped nearby.

Authorities have not confirmed whether the SUV was directly involved in the fatal collision or whether the case is being investigated as a possible hit-and-run. Police temporarily shut down the southbound lanes of Balboa Boulevard at Keswick Street as detectives processed the scene.

Traffic in the area was detoured through nearby streets while investigators examined evidence and documented the crash site. The investigation remains ongoing.

We extend our sincere condolences to the victim’s family and loved ones during this challenging time.

Who Is Eligible to File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?

Under California law, the deceased person’s spouse or registered domestic partner has primary standing to bring a claim. If there is no surviving spouse or partner, the decedent’s children may have the right to file. In some cases, grandchildren may be eligible if the deceased person’s children are also deceased.

If none of these relatives are living, individuals who would be entitled to inherit under California’s intestate succession laws may qualify to pursue a claim. This can include parents or other close family members, depending on the circumstances.

Additionally, individuals who were financially dependent on the deceased, such as stepchildren or putative spouses, may have standing in certain situations. A putative spouse is someone who believed in good faith that they were legally married to the deceased, even if the marriage was later found invalid.

Eligibility depends on the specific family structure and financial relationships involved. Courts may examine evidence of dependency, household contributions, and the nature of the relationship to determine standing.

In many cases, only one wrongful death lawsuit may be filed, meaning all eligible heirs must be identified and included in the action. 

Because wrongful death laws are strictly applied, determining who has legal standing often requires careful review of the facts, family records, and financial documentation. Consulting with a car accident attorney can help clarify eligibility, coordinate among potential claimants, and ensure the appropriate party files the claim within the required timeframe.

Our legal team at Saleh Law Group reviews fatal accident cases throughout California.

To discuss your legal options after the sudden and tragic loss of a loved one in an accident in Los Angeles, contact Saleh Law Group at (949) 431-6371.

Los Angeles, CA (February 22, 2026) – A woman riding a mobility scooter was killed in a hit-and-run crash on Sunday, February 22, in South Los Angeles. The incident occurred around 1:35 a.m. along Slauson Avenue near Denver Avenue.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the 30-year-old woman was traveling north on Slauson Avenue when a vehicle struck her. The impact left her seriously injured.

Paramedics arrived shortly after the crash and transported the woman to a nearby hospital. Despite life-saving efforts, she died upon arrival. Authorities have not released her name.

Investigators said the driver fled the area without stopping to provide aid or identification. The suspect vehicle was described as a possible mid-2000s Chevrolet Tahoe or Chevrolet Suburban. The Los Angeles Police Department is leading the investigation and urges anyone with information to come forward.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the woman who lost her life during this tragic time.

Time Limits for Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in California

California law sets a strict deadline for wrongful death claims. Most families have two years from the date of death to file in court. Missing that limit can prevent the case from moving forward entirely.

Confusion often arises over when the filing period begins. The calculation may depend on the date of death rather than the crash date. Using the wrong starting point can significantly reduce the available time to file.

Claims involving public agencies follow different procedures. State law requires a written administrative claim before a lawsuit begins. Failing to complete that step on time can permanently bar financial recovery.

Delayed discovery may affect certain cases. When the cause of death becomes known later, timing rules can shift. Waiting too long after learning new facts can still create serious filing problems.

Special rules apply when minors or incapacitated individuals have standing. Courts may pause some deadlines under limited conditions. Misunderstanding how tolling applies to legally incapacitated claimants can result in missed filing rights.

Survival actions differ from wrongful death claims. Each type follows its own legal framework and deadline. Filing the wrong claim can complicate the process and delay proper case resolution.

Courts strictly enforce filing deadlines set by law. Late filings often result in dismissal. Once dismissed, the right to seek compensation usually ends without further review.

An auto accident lawyer can review important deadlines and explain which timeline applies to the case. An attorney may help prevent filing errors and outline the required steps to file a claim.

Our legal team at Saleh Law Group reviews fatal accident cases across California. To discuss filing deadlines and your available options, contact Saleh Law Group at (949) 431-6371.

Long Beach, CA (February 21, 2026) – Four people died on Saturday, February 21, after a fiery single-vehicle crash at East Spring Street and Lakewood Boulevard in Long Beach. The accident happened around 1:20 a.m., not far from Long Beach Airport.

According to the Long Beach Police Department, a 2008 Honda Accord traveled south on Lakewood Boulevard from Spring Street when it struck the center median curb. The vehicle lost control, crashed into an underpass center support wall, and caught fire.

Emergency crews arrived and located one female occupant outside the car. Despite life-saving efforts, she died at the scene. Crews also found three other victims inside the burned vehicle. Officials confirmed they died inside the vehicle.

Authorities identified the victims as two men and two women. They have not released their ages or identities.

The Long Beach Police Department is investigating the incident.

We extend our sincere condolences to the families of those who lost their lives during this grieving time.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim After a Fatal Crash in California?

A surviving spouse, registered domestic partner, or child usually has the first right to file a wrongful death claim. These close relatives pursue the case for their losses tied to death. They must confirm their legal relationship before moving forward in court.

If no spouse or child exists, other close family members may qualify. Parents or siblings can step in when succession laws place them next in line. State inheritance rules determine legal filing priority in these cases.

Certain financial dependents may also have standing under California law. A minor who relied on the deceased for at least half of their financial support can qualify. Courts require clear proof of that reliance.

A personal representative of the estate may file the case on behalf of all eligible heirs. This approach keeps the matter consolidated into one action. The court must formally appoint or recognize that representative.

California law requires one unified wrongful death lawsuit in civil court. All heirs with standing must join the same case together. Courts do not allow separate lawsuits for the same death.

Most wrongful death actions must be filed within two years of the date of death. Missing this strict legal deadline can prevent recovery. Courts strictly enforce these filing time limits.

Families must prove that another party’s negligence caused the fatal crash. They also need records that show their losses. Financial documents and proof of relationship often support the case.

An auto accident lawyer can confirm eligibility and prepare the required legal documents. An attorney can also gather evidence and handle communication with insurance companies.

At Saleh Law Group, we represent families who have lost loved ones in fatal crashes across California. We gather evidence, review records, and explain how wrongful death laws may apply to your case.

If you lost a loved one in a car accident in California, contact Saleh Law Group at (949) 431-6371 to discuss your case with our team.