Danielle Leveque died in pedestrian accident on Grand Avenue

Woman pedestrian struck by Toyota Prius near Stoneman Street

January 05, 2026 | Lakeland Village, CA

A 57-year-old pedestrian, Danielle Leveque, lost her life after being struck by a vehicle in Lakeland Village, California. 

The incident unfolded late at night, prompting a swift response from local authorities.

Danielle Leveque, 57, died after a 2010 Toyota Prius struck her while she crossed Grand Avenue at Stoneman Street in Lakeland Village.

What Happened in the Crash?

Authorities from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that Leveque was walking southbound on Grand Avenue near Stoneman Street around 11 p.m. on Jan. 5. As she crossed the roadway, a southbound 2010 Toyota Prius, traveling at approximately 45 mph, collided with her. The wreck propelled her a short distance south of the intersection.

• Victim Details: Danielle Leveque, age 57, pronounced dead at the scene.
• Vehicle Involved: 2010 Toyota Prius, driven southbound on Grand Avenue.
• Location: Grand Avenue and Stoneman Street, Lakeland Village, CA.
• Time: Shortly after 11 p.m. on Jan. 5.
• Driver Status: Uninjured and remained at the scene.
• Investigation: Ongoing by CHP.

The driver cooperated fully with investigators, and no charges have been announced as the investigation continues.

Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?

Pedestrian fatalities have surged in recent years, outpacing population growth significantly. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), walking deaths have increased at a rate nearly seven times higher than U.S. population growth over the past decade.

Common factors in such crashes include:

• High vehicle speeds in residential areas.
• Poor visibility at night.
• Failure to yield right-of-way to crosswalk users.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that motor vehicle crashes remain a leading cause of injury and death, emphasizing the need for heightened driver awareness around vulnerable road users.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this, an independent investigation by a qualified attorney can safeguard the interests of affected families, preserving vital evidence promptly.

“In most instances, pedestrians possess the right of way when crossing an intersection or a street regardless of if they are in a marked crosswalk,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal.

Key takeaways from legal perspectives on pedestrian incidents:

• Drivers must always yield to pedestrians, prioritizing safety at intersections.
• Families may pursue wrongful death claims for losses including income, companionship, and emotional distress.
• Quick action preserves evidence, countering insurance pressures for low settlements.

“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. “Family members of wrongful death victims may seek damages for loss of income and companionship, pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident.”

Experienced counsel can advocate fiercely, ensuring fair compensation while navigating the complexities of such claims.

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