Vehicle struck pedestrian near Border Avenue
December 21, 2025 | Torrance, CA
Michael Hernandez, 52, lost his life in a tragic vehicle-pedestrian collision on Sepulveda Boulevard near Border Avenue.
Michael Hernandez, 52, was pronounced dead after a vehicle struck him on Sepulveda Boulevard near Border Avenue in Torrance.
What Happened in the Crash?
Authorities reported the incident occurred around 11:25 p.m. on a Sunday. Hernandez sustained severe traumatic injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Key details include:
- Victim: Michael Hernandez, 52 years old
- Location: Sepulveda Boulevard at Border Avenue, Torrance, California
- Time: Approximately 11:25 p.m.
- Outcome: Fatal injuries leading to death
- Responding Agency: Torrance Police Department
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed Hernandez's identity following the crash.
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Pedestrian safety on U.S. roads has deteriorated, with urban areas seeing a sharp rise in fatalities. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 84% of pedestrian deaths in 2023 happened in urban settings, compared to just 59% in 1975. Factors contributing to these incidents include larger vehicles such as SUVs and trucks, road designs that prioritize speed, and driver inattention.
Statistic |
1975 |
2023 |
Source |
|---|
Urban Pedestrian Fatalities (%) |
59% |
84% |
IIHS |
Overall Pedestrian Deaths (Annual) |
About 6,000 |
Over 7,500 |
NHTSA |
Common Causes |
Speeding, Distracted Driving |
Heavier Vehicles, Poor Lighting |
CDC |
This table highlights the escalating risks, underscoring the need for improved infrastructure and awareness.
Ongoing Investigation Details
Torrance police are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision. No additional information on the driver or contributing factors has been released as the investigation continues. Newsline will provide updates as more details emerge.
Legal Insights on Pedestrian Crashes
National legal analysts offer valuable perspectives on handling such incidents 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 with Bond Legal.
Bond emphasizes the importance of an independent investigation in cases such as this to safeguard family rights and ensure timely evidence collection.
“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal.
Formica notes that families may pursue wrongful death claims for losses including income, companionship, and emotional distress.
Key takeaways:
- Conduct thorough, independent investigations promptly to preserve evidence.
- Drivers must prioritize yielding to pedestrians at all times.
- Families deserve fair compensation, and resist quick, low settlements from insurers.
- Legal guidance helps navigate complex claims effectively.
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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).