ORANGE COUNTY - An Irvine man very tragically died Monday morning after he was pinned between two vehicles on Summit Park, the Orange County Register reported. The victim, Sung Lee, 77, of Irvine, had been involved in a minor crash with a parked gardening truck, and had gotten out to assess the damage and exchange information, when he was struck by a Volkswagen Jetta driven by a 16-year-old boy. The collision pinned Lee between two vehicles. He was taken to Western Medical Center in Santa Ana, where he died just after 9:15 a.m.
Cause of the Accident
The cause of the September 12th Irvine crash remains under investigation. According to the OC Register, authorities say the "alignment of the morning sunlight with the roadway" may have been a factor. Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has any information is asked to contact Irvine police Sgt. Dennis Maisano at 949-724-7023.
Although sun glare can greatly impair visibility, drivers are responsible for controlling their vehicle at all times. Dirty windshields can also contribute to decreased visibility, as every smudge, dirt particle and streak becomes magnified, and the sunrise cast long shadows on the road ahead. Even if drivers are following the posted speed limit, if they are found to be driving at speeds in excess of road conditions (i.e., limited visibility), they may be found responsible for causing an accident.
Sun Glare Accident Wrongful Death Liability
Pedestrians and bystanders are some of the most common victims of this relatively uncommon type of collision that only accounts for more than 100 hundred deaths nationwide each year. Following a fatal crash such as this September 12th collision in Irvine where sun glare is suspected to play a role, the family members of the victim would be well-advised to speak with an experienced Irvine personal injury attorney about their rights in a wrongful death claim. If the negligence of the driver is determined to be a factor in the fatal collision, a California wrongful death lawyer can help the victim's family protect their rights to recover compensation for their loss, including final medical bills, funeral and burial expenses and loss of love, care affection and companionship.
Sources: Orange County Register
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