California Injury Blog
Brian Benito Ornelas, 34, of Alta Loma, was killed in a pedestrian accident the night of April 17, 2009, the San Bernardino Sun reports. Ornelas was walking in the 1500 block of West Northpark Boulevard when he was struck by an eastbound 2002 Mitsubishi Galant. The driver of the Mitsubishi, identified as 47-year-old Morris Pezant, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. Police say an altercation occurred between the driver, Pezant, and friends of the victim. If you have any information about this pedestrian versus car accident, please call the San Bernardino Police Department hot line at 909-384-5656.
I offer my deepest condolences to the family of Brian Benito Ornelas for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved this man. Please keep them in your prayers.
According to California Highway Patrol’s 2007 traffic accident statistics there were four fatalities and 34 personal injuries relating to pedestrian accidents in the city of San Bernardino. In San Bernardino County as a whole, there were 50 fatalities and 432 injuries relating to pedestrian accidents in 2007. Also during the same time, there were reports of 105 alcohol-related car accident fatalities in San Bernardino County.
It is against California law to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a) states: “It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle.”
The family of Brian Benito Ornelas would be well advised to retain the services of a reputed California pedestrian accident attorney, experienced in successfully handling cases involving DUI drivers. Where there is negligence or wrongdoing involved, families of deceased victims are able to file what is known as a wrongful death claim. Such claims compensate victims’ families for medical/funeral expenses, loss of earnings and other related damages. A skilled California personal injury attorney would also be able to look at other factors such as a dangerous roadway or whether the driver was on-the-job or running an errand for someone at the time of the fatal car crash.