A sedan struck him near Ward Road after his pickup ran out of gas
August 10, 2026 | Acton, CA
What happened in the crash?
Rigoberto Antonio Lemus, 38, died after a passing sedan struck him while he was standing behind his white Ford pickup in the No. 3 lane of southbound State Route 14 near Ward Road.
- Date: Aug. 10
- Location: Southbound SR-14 near Ward Road, Acton, CA
- Vehicles: White Ford pickup truck, red Tesla sedan
- Outcome: 38-year-old pedestrian fatally injured
Rigoberto Antonio Lemus was driving a white Ford pickup truck that ran out of gas and stopped in the No. 3 lane of southbound SR-14 near Ward Road in Acton. He exited the vehicle and stood behind it when a passing red Tesla sedan struck him. Lemus later died from his injuries. Officers from the California Highway Patrol Newhall Area office and Los Angeles County Fire Department responded to the scene where both vehicles were blocking lanes. The sedan driver remained at the scene. Authorities continue to investigate the incident.
Why do these accidents happen?
Pedestrian fatalities on U.S. roads have risen sharply due to factors including driver behavior, road design, and visibility issues. Data from the Governors Highway Safety Association shows pedestrian deaths increased 80% between 2009 and 2023, compared to a 13% rise in other traffic fatalities.
Key facts at a glance
- Victim: Rigoberto Antonio Lemus, age 38
- Time of incident: Approximately 11 p.m.
- A GoFundMe page has been established to assist with funeral expenses
Accident statistics
| Source | Time Period | Pedestrian Deaths Change | All Other Traffic Fatalities Change |
|---|
| Governors Highway Safety Association | 2009–2023 | +80% | +13% |
Legal insights
In cases such as this, road conditions, signage, and lighting require careful review to determine contributing factors.
“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.”
“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian. 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.”
- Insurance companies may offer quick settlements below case value
- Independent review helps ensure fair compensation for families
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