A woman identified as 43-year-old Matilda Garnica was killed and seven others were injured in a car accident in Los Angeles after they were struck by an out-of-control car while watching Fourth of July fireworks in Valencia.

The Signal reports that the accident occurred the night of July 4, 2010 near the intersection of Valencia Boulevard and Mall Entrance when a 22-year-old woman driving an Infiniti ran a red light and crashed into a Dodge Durango SUV. The impact sent the Infiniti into a bevy of spectators. Garnica and her 13-year-old son were pinned under the vehicle. She died at the scene and her son was transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Her other son was also injured as were five others. However, those injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

My heart goes out to everybody who knew and loved Matilda Garnica, especially her family that is reeling from this devastating loss while attending to two injured children in the hospital. Tragic! Please keep this family and the other injured victims in your thoughts and prayers.

Rules of the Road

Running a red light is a serious traffic violation in California. There are various California Vehicle Code sections that are part of what we commonly refer to as "rules of the road." These code sections address motorists' behavior at intersections, especially those controlled by traffic signals. California Vehicle Code Section 21453 (a) states: "A driver facing a circular red signal shall stop at the limit line before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection or, if none, then before entering the intersection, and shall remain stopped until an indication to proceed is shown."

Wrongful Death Claim

It is not clear why this driver failed to stop for the red light. Was she under the influence of alcohol or drugs? Was she distracted at the time of the collision? Was she speeding or driving recklessly? If she is determined to have caused this accident, then this driver could be held criminally and civilly liable for Garnica's death.

In such cases, families of deceased victims may file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of earnings, cost of hospitalization, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages. An experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer will be able to advise victims and their families in such cases about their legal rights and options.

What are some of the biggest challenges faced by victims and their families in the aftermath of a crash?

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.

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