California Injury Blog
A woman was struck and killed while walking in a post office parking lot in Seal Beach the morning of April 14. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the fatal pedestrian accident occurred at 2929 Westminster Avenue. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Police say she was walking near the building when a car struck her.
Ongoing Investigation
The driver of the vehicle was not injured, but remained at the scene and cooperated with the police. Investigators said they don’t believe there were any suspicious or criminal circumstances related to the crash. Anyone with more information about this fatal collision is asked to contact Seal Beach police at 562-799-4100, ext. 1623. No arrests or citations were reported. The investigation is ongoing.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of this deceased victim for their tragic loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Causes of Parking Lot Pedestrian Accidents
Whether you are in the mall, the supermarket, or the post office, pedestrians who are making their way back to their vehicles are in danger of getting hit. Here are some of the most common causes of parking lot pedestrian accidents:
Distracted driving: When motorists are distracted by their cell phones, fellow passengers, or by something else, it could be extremely dangerous for pedestrians. This is even more dangerous in a busy parking lot where a number of people are walking.
Search for a parking space: People can get extremely distracted when they are looking for a parking spot. Often, while doing so, they are not paying attention to pedestrians. This is how a number of parking lot collisions occur.
Mistakes: It is not uncommon to see a driver push the gas pedal instead of the brake or put the vehicle in drive instead or reverse or vice versa. These types of mistakes that often involve drivers who are distracted or confused (often seniors), could result in catastrophic injuries to pedestrians.
Backing up: Some drivers do not pay attention to pedestrians before backing out of a parking space. These types of accidents can also be tragic for pedestrians.
Rights of Victims or Families
Even if a driver is not charged, victims of such parking lot pedestrian accidents or families that have lost loved ones may still be able to pursue a civil personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit against the at-fault motorist. Some of these accidents may also be caused by poor lighting on the property or other dangerous conditions, which might make it difficult to see pedestrians. In such cases, the property owner or manager can also be held liable. An experienced Orange County personal injury lawyer will be able to advise injured victims and their families regarding their legal rights and options.
Source: https://www.ocregister.com/2021/04/14/woman-walking-in-seal-beach-post-office-parking-lot-is-fatally-struck/