One Dead, Six Injured in Dangerous Sidewalk Crash

One pedestrian was killed and six others injured after a pickup truck lost control and veered onto a busy sidewalk and into a building Sunday afternoon in downtown Los Angeles.

According to reports from the LA Fire Department, the crash took place just before 2 p.m. on Broadway between 3rd and 4th streets, where dark green 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche traveling southbound lost control and swerved onto a crowded sidewalk.

Five pedestrians were struck before the truck crashed into a building and came to a stop. Four were quickly taken to nearby hospitals for treatment of non-life threatening injuries, and the fifth, a 52 year old woman, was pronounced dead at the scene by accident responders. Her identity has yet to be released, as the county coroner’s office is still working to notify her next of kin.

The driver of the truck, Juan Moreno, and a passenger on board were injured in the crash as well. They were also transported to a nearby hospital.

Following the crash, investigators closed down the block of Broadway between 3rd and 4th streets to uncover the cause of the crash. Unconfirmed, police are looking into a possible health issue that may have caused Moreno to lose control of his truck. At this point, no charges have been filed.

An inspection of the building that was struck revealed that it was still safe for use; no major structural damage was suffered.

Considering the popularity of the area, it was fortunate that more damage was not inflicted. “Based on what we’ve determined as far as the low rate of speed of the vehicle, we’re just fortunate that more people weren’t injured,” said Bob Franco, Assistant Chief at the LAFD. “This is a very vibrant, very busy part of the city on a Sunday afternoon. There are a lot of shops here.”

In and around crowded pedestrian areas, it is essential that automobile drivers use extreme caution, and avoid dangerous maneuvers that could introduce their vehicle to a group of defenseless shoppers. Near intersections and sidewalks, it is important to have a complete picture of what is around you, and to give pedestrians their right of way in crossing the street.

If you or someone you know has been hurt in a crash such as this, you should seek help. Depending on the circumstances that led to your accident, you may be entitled to compensation, which a skilled Los Angeles car accident lawyer can help you recover.

At AA Accident Attorneys, we will work to get you back onto your feet as quickly as possible. We will guide you through the legal process and get you the full amount that you are rightfully owed. As always, we will charge you nothing for our services until your case is won. Call us today for a free evaluation and to learn what a car accident lawyer can do for you!