Monterey, CA – According to KSBW, a pedestrian crash near the Monterey Conference Center on Friday night September 22, 2024, claimed the life of Kathryn Hong, a 65-year-old Minneapolis resident.
The accident occurred at the intersection of Calle Principal and Del Monte Avenue around 8:03 PM when Hong was struck by a pickup truck while crossing the street.
Hong was in the crosswalk at the time of the accident. The driver, a 23-year-old man from Salinas, remained at the scene and immediately cooperated with authorities. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, Hong passed away due to the severity of her injuries.
The Monterey Police Department reported no signs of impairment on the part of the driver, and investigators have forwarded the case to the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office for further review to determine if charges will be filed.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a specific “Duty of Care” towards pedestrians, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for pedestrians near the roadway and, if a fatal collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a pedestrian accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
If the at-fault driver avoids legal consequences, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.