Karl Weichinger, 78, was killed in a truck accident on the Los Angeles River bike path after he was hit by a dump truck that was backing up. According to a news report in the Los Angeles Times, Weichinger was walking on the path the afternoon of June 1, 2010 near Elizabeth Street, when he was struck by the dump truck. Weichinger was transported to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead. The truck driver told officials that he did not see Weichinger. But Weichinger's family and friends are convinced that workers in the area were driving too fast and too recklessly at the time. At this point they are seeking answers in the death of their loved one.

I offer my deepest condolences to everyone who knew and loved Weichinger for their profound loss. Such a loss becomes even more devastating when families of deceased victims don't have answers or do not have a sense of closure. I pray that this family gets their questions answered.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 104 deaths and 2,716 personal injuries involving pedestrian accidents in Los Angeles. Countywide, 214 people died and 4,985 were injured as a result of pedestrian accidents during the same year.

Fault and Liability

Based on this news report, officials are saying that there were hardly any eyewitnesses to this accident. Traffic investigators say they have received some reports that workers were driving too fast in the area at the time, but so far they have not interviewed anyone to substantiate those statements. The driver worked for a company called All American Asphalt. Officials apparently also inspected the truck and found there was no evidence that it was traveling at more than 5 mph.

I hope for this family's sake that more witnesses come forward to describe exactly what happened. If the driver was operating the dump truck recklessly or negligently at the time, then he and his employer could be held liable for Weichinger's wrongful death. The family would be well-advised to retain an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer who will stay on top of this investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.

What are some of your experiences with close calls at construction zones?

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.