Los Angeles Injury Attorney Blog

ORANGE COUNTY -- According to the Orange County Register, a 35-year-old man was fatally struck by an Orange County Transportation Authority bus in Laguna Hills. This horrific accident happened just at 5 p.m. Saturday on Paseo de Valencia and Alicia Parkway.

Orange County Sheriff's Lt. Roland Chacon stated that the bus driver was traveling south on Paseo de Valencia and then turned right to head west on Alicia Parkway. As the driver made right turn he struck the bicyclist that was on the westbound crosswalk of Alicia. Following the crash, the bicyclist, Romeo Jimenez-Zavaleta, of Laguna Hills, was transported to Mission Hospital Regional Medical Center, where he later died due to his injuries.

Cause of the Bicycle Accident in Laguna Hills

The accident on November 12th remains under investigation by the Orange County Sheriff's Department. However, based on the information provided by the Orange County Register, it is unclear why the driver of the bus struck the bicyclist. Therefore, police officials investigating this devastating collision will look at a variety of factors such as distracted driving, vehicle malfunctions, road conditions, negligent or reckless actions by the driver, and who had the right of way.

Bicycle Accident Wrongful Death Liability

Accidents such as this one, where it is not clear who is at fault, can have unique and complex legal issues. Therefore, family members of the victim would be well-advised to seek an experienced California bicycle accident attorney. A skilled lawyer who is an avid cyclist and has represented numerous victims in major and fatal bicycle accidents can help the victim's family through their unexpected and devastating loss.

If it is officially determined by authorities that the driver of the bus is responsible for the incident, the driver can be held financially liable for the death of the victim. Therefore, attorneys at the law firm of Estey Bomberger can advise the family of their legal rights and decide the best course of action in recovering the maximum compensation in a wrongful death claim that can include final medical care expenses, funeral and burial costs, lost earnings, and loss of love, care, affection, and companionship.