A 16-year-old Twentynine Palms boy was killed Tuesday morning when he was struck by a 1999 Chevrolet Silverado while walking near Indian Trail Road and Meldora Avenue, the San Bernardino Sun reported. The victim was identified by the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner as Mario Leonard Mercado. According to news reports, at about 6 a.m. on January 4, 2011, Mercardo was struck by the Silverado, which was driven by a civilian employee heading to USMC Air Ground Combat Training Center. The driver stopped at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation into the cause of the crash.
The sudden and unexpected loss of a teenager is heartbreaking and tragic, and our condolences go out to the family and friends of Mario Mercado, and everyone who knew him and loved him. Please keep his family in your prayers during this surely very difficult time.
Fault and Wrongful Death Liability
Based on the limited information provided in news reports, it is not clear why this accident occurred and whether the driver of the pickup truck could have avoided the collision. At this point, there are more questions than answers. If it is determined that the driver is responsible for the fatal collision, he or she may be liable for the victim's wrongful death, in which case, the family members of the victim may be entitled to recover financial compensation for funeral and burial expenses, anticipated future earnings the victim would have earned, and loss of love, care, and companionship.
After any fatal pedestrian accident where the cause is still under investigation, the family members of the victims would be well-advised to speak with a California wrongful death attorney. A San Bernardino personal injury lawyer can stay on top of the CHP investigation, and advise the family of their legal rights.
Sources: San Bernardino Sun
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