Public Works Contractor Struck in Drunk Driving Accident

A contractor working for the Los Angeles Department of Public Works was struck by a suspected drunk driver while working on a lighting project early Thursday morning near LAX.

According to Los Angeles Police Sergeant Joel Sydanmaa, the accident occurred at approximately 4:30 a.m. near the Sepulveda Boulevard tunnel to the airport, where the Best Electric employee working on a street lighting rehabilitation project was struck by a passing vehicle.

City officials said that the crew was working to convert street lighting in the area from high to low voltage lights. At the time of the accident, the worker, who has not been identified, was gathering up traffic cones at the end of his work shift.

The collision reportedly sent the worker several feet out onto the road, and his shoes were found more than 30 feet away. “His shoes are at the scene, so at the very minimum, he got knocked out of his shoes,” said Sydanmaa. “If you look at the damage to the truck and to the vehicle he was in and the construction sign that they were towing, it’s pretty extensive.” The man was quickly rushed to UCLA Medical Center in critical condition, having suffered at least two broken bones and a concussion. His condition has since been improved to serious but stable and he is expected to survive.

The driver who struck the contractor, 30 year old Devin Scott Enderle, was meanwhile apprehended at the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. He was unhurt in the crash.

Following the accident, police closed down multiple lanes of Sepulveda, and the westbound 105 Freeway exit. Only a single lane remained open in each direction between Century Boulevard and Imperial Highway, creating substantial congestion throughout the area. Drivers were being rerouted to the 405 Freeway to Century Boulevard, or the Nash Street Exit of the 105 Freeway. Some airport goers looking to make their flights were even seen dragging their luggage on foot.

By 11 a.m., all lanes were finally reopened, though slowing remained well into the afternoon.

If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident with a driver under the influence such as this, help is available. With the help of legal representation, compensation can be recovered from those at fault to cover costs such as doctor visits, X-rays, surgeries, physical therapy, and more.

At AA Accident Attorneys, our team of experienced legal professionals understands your rights, and will fight to get you everything that you need to get back on your feet. As with all of our clients, we will not charge you anything for our legal services until your case is won; if we cannot collect on your case, then you will not owe us anything.

If you’d like more information about what a Los Angeles car accident attorney can do for you, or for a free consultation to discuss your available options, call us today!