Los Angeles Injury Attorney Blog

A 20-year-old San Bernardino man died early Sunday morning after he was struck by a truck while walking to his parked car, the San Bernardino Sun reported. The August 15th pedestrian accident occurred at around 3:13 a.m., in the 2100 block of N Sierra Way in San Bernardino. Police said Mario Antonio Flores Topete was struck by a a 2000 Chevy Pickup truck driven by Augustine Ramirez, of San Bernardino. Topete was taken to St. Bernardine Medical Center where he died. Ramirez reportedly fled the scene but was arrested a short time later on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter. He was booked at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

Anyone with any information on the incident is asked to contact Detective Carlson at 909-384-5664 or Sgt. R. Lawhead at 909-384-5738.

Cause of the Fatal Accident

The San Bernardino Police Department is continuing to investigate the incident. The Press-Enterprise stated that Ramirez was reportedly under the influence of alcohol when the accident occurred.

Wrongful Death Liability

If this fatal accident was indeed caused by the suspected drunk driver, he may face criminal charges for the death of Mario Topete. Additionally, Ramirez may be held financially responsible for Topete's death in a California wrongful death claim. Damages awarded to the family of a victim of wrongful death may be substantial, and include compensation for final medical expenses, funeral and burial expenses, anticipated future lifetime earnings of the victim, and loss of love, care and companionship. In situations such as this one, the family members of the victim would be well-advised to contact a knowledgeable San Bernardino wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible who can help them understand and protect their legal rights.