Vehicle struck the man walking westbound on the highway
January 29, 2026 | Moreno Valley, CA
Authorities report that David James Hill, a 62-year-old local resident, lost his life after being struck by a vehicle early Thursday morning.
David James Hill, 62, of Morongo Valley, died after being struck while walking in the westbound lanes of State Route 62 at Adeline Way.
What Happened in the Crash?
The collision took place just before 5:40 a.m. at the intersection of State Route 62 and Adeline Way. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), Hill was walking when an unidentified motorist traveling westbound on State Route 62 hit him. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators determined that neither alcohol nor drugs played a role in the incident.
Key details include:
- Victim: David James Hill, 62, of Morongo Valley
- Location: State Route 62 and Adeline Way, Morongo Valley, CA
- Time: Approximately 5:40 a.m.
- Vehicle: Unknown make and model, westbound
- Agency: California Highway Patrol (CHP)
- Outcome: Fatal pedestrian injury, and no other injuries reported
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Pedestrian safety remains a pressing concern on roadways. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates that motor vehicle crashes claimed an estimated 4,400 lives in California in 2022, averaging about 12 deaths daily. Statewide pedestrian fatalities dropped by roughly 8.8% in 2023, from 1,213 in 2022 to 1,106, per the California Office of Traffic Safety.
Year |
Total Fatalities in CA Crashes |
Pedestrian Fatalities |
Source |
|---|
2022 |
4,400 |
1,213 |
NHTSA / California Office of Traffic Safety |
2023 |
N/A |
1,106 |
California Office of Traffic Safety |
The Governors Highway Safety Association highlights that walking, while common, has grown riskier, leading to significant losses for families and communities.
Legal Insights
National legal analysts emphasize the importance of thorough investigations following such tragedies to support affected families.
“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 at Bond Legal.
- Pedestrians generally have priority at crossings, underscoring driver responsibilities.
- Independent investigations by experienced attorneys can safeguard family rights in pedestrian incidents.
- Yielding to pedestrians is a fundamental driver's duty, as noted by Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal.
“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Formica. “Family members may seek damages for loss of income, companionship, pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and emotional distress.”
- Attorneys provide compassionate guidance during difficult periods.
- Insurance pressures for low settlements can be countered by vigorous advocacy for fair compensation.
Newsline, owned by Belsito Communications, Inc., stands as a premier digital news platform with an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and editorial excellence. We invite readers to review our Corrections Policy for transparency, with a 24-hour review guarantee.
Explore our Editorial Process and Editorial Policy to see our dedication to credible news delivery.
(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)
Newsline - is your trusted source for legal news and accident reports, delivering timely updates to keep you informed.
Candice Bond, national legal analyst for Newsline, has extensive experience with fatal pedestrian accidents. If you or a loved one needs help, she offers free consultations.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).