Louis Chambers, 60, was killed in a San Bernardino car accident after he was struck by a vehicle at a local intersection, the night of August 9, 2010. According to a news report in The San Bernardino Sun, the fatal pedestrian accident occurred near the intersection of Ninth Street and Grove Avenue, in Upland. Chambers was in his wheelchair at the intersection when a 2004 Toyota Corolla struck him. Chambers was transported to a local hospital where he died shortly after the collision. Officials say there is no indication, based on preliminary investigation, the driver of the Corolla was under the influence at the time.

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My heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of Louis Chambers. This grieving family will certainly be in my thoughts and prayers.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were no fatalities, but 16 injuries reported due to pedestrian accidents in Upland. In San Bernardino County, 39 people died and 432 were injured as a result of pedestrian accidents during the same year.

Pedestrian Laws

Based on this news report, it is not exactly clear where Chambers was at the time of the crash. Was he attempting to cross the road at the intersection? Was he on the side or shoulder of the road?

California law requires motorists to yield right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks. People in wheelchairs are considered pedestrians under California law. California Vehicle Code section 21950 states: "The driver of a vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian crossing the roadway within any marked crosswalk or within any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection." The same section also states that the driver of a vehicle approaching a pedestrian within any marked or unmarked crosswalk "shall exercise all due care and shall reduce the speed of a vehicle or take any other action relating to the operating of the vehicle as necessary to safeguard the safety of the pedestrian."

Liability Issues

If the investigation determines that the driver of the Corolla was at-fault for the incident, he or she could be held liable for Chambers' wrongful death. Where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased accident victims can file a wrongful death claim, seeking compensation to cover medical and funeral expenses, lost future income, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages. The best San Bernardino personal injury lawyers will always offer a free and comprehensive consultation to injured victims and their families.

What are some of the most dangerous roadways for people in wheelchairs in your city or neighborhood?

None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.