Jose Valencia Exits Disabled Car and is Fatally Struck by Passing Car In Newhall Area
Posted on February 18, 2024 Written By: Robert Koenig
Passing Vehicle on 5 Fwy in Santa Clarita Strikes Jose Valencia
Santa Clarita, CA (February 18, 2024) – Tragedy struck on the early morning of February 18th as Jose Valencia lost his life in a collision on the 5 Freeway in Newhall area of Santa Clarita.
Fatal Accident Occurred Just South of Highway 14
The fatal incident occurred at approximately 2:41 a.m., just south of Highway 14. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), Jose Valencia’s 1977 Ford became disabled in the northbound lanes of the freeway, north of Balboa Boulevard. Valencia exited his vehicle and was subsequently struck by a 1998 Ford, driven by a 36-year-old Inglewood man.
Following the collision, the driver of the 1998 Ford pulled over and immediately contacted emergency services. Despite the efforts of first responders, Valencia was pronounced dead at the scene. The 41-year-old victim was a resident of Los Angeles, as confirmed by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner.
Man Who Struck Jose Magna Valencia Stayed and Called For Emergency Services
At present, no arrests have been made in connection with the incident. However, CHP officers are actively investigating whether drugs and/or alcohol were contributing factors to the crash. They have urged anyone with additional information to contact CHP Newhall Area Public Information Officer Josh Greengard at 661-600-1600.
As the investigation continues, our thoughts are with the family and friends of Jose Valencia during this difficult time.
Location On 5 Freeway Near Highway 14 Where Accident Occurred
Why It Was Dangerous For Jose Valencia To Exit His Disabled Vehicle On The 5 Freeway
Exiting a disabled vehicle on a busy freeway can be extremely dangerous due to several factors:
- High-Speed Traffic: Freeways typically have fast-moving traffic. Exiting his disabled vehicle exposed Jose Valencia to the risk of being struck by oncoming vehicles traveling at high speeds.
- Limited Reaction Time: Drivers on freeways have limited time to react to obstacles in the road. Exiting a disabled vehicle suddenly increases the likelihood of other drivers being unable to react in time to avoid a collision.
- Proximity to Traffic Lanes: Disabled vehicles are often located close to traffic lanes, and exiting near moving vehicles can result in a collision. The close proximity amplifies the risk of injury or fatality.
- Limited Visibility: Freeways may have poor lighting conditions, and drivers may have difficulty seeing pedestrians or individuals outside their vehicles, especially during nighttime or adverse weather conditions.
- Unpredictable Driver Behavior: Motorists on freeways may not anticipate pedestrians, like Jose Valencia, on the roadway, especially if it is not a designated pedestrian area. This unpredictability can lead to accidents.
- Emergency Vehicles and Assistance: Emergency vehicles and roadside assistance may not be able to respond quickly on busy freeways. Exiting a vehicle in search of help can delay assistance and increase the time spent in a dangerous situation.
- Risk of Secondary Collisions: Exiting a disabled vehicle increases the risk of secondary collisions involving both the disabled vehicle and passing traffic. These secondary collisions can result in additional injuries and damage.
- No Protection from Traffic Barriers: On the Newhall Pass, there are often limited barriers or protective structures between the traffic lanes and the roadside. This lack of protection increased the vulnerability of Jose Valencia outside of his 77 Ford Vehicle.
- Traffic Flow Interruption: Exiting a disabled vehicle on a busy freeway can disrupt the flow of traffic, leading to sudden stops or swerves by other drivers, potentially causing additional accidents.
To minimize the dangers, individuals should stay inside their disabled vehicles, activate hazard lights, and call for assistance. If possible, move the vehicle to the shoulder or a designated emergency stopping area. Exiting the vehicle should only be considered when it is safe to do so, such as when there is a designated pedestrian walkway or assistance is readily available.
Hire an Accident Attorney Near Santa Clarita, CA
If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto collision, Accident Lawyer strongly encourages you to call our Newhall car accident lawyers. Your experienced Car Accident Lawyer will provide you with the best legal representation and guidance that you need. Our offices are conveniently located throughout California and we conduct regular travels in the region to meet with clients. Contact Car Accident Lawyer today.
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Legal Expert, Robert Koenig, has been practicing law for over 30 years. His desire to help more people in their time of need has caused him to expand across three states (California, Nevada, and Colorado) to bring his talent to as many people as possible. During which time he has collected OVER $150,000,000 in personal injury and car accident claims. Robert has been a ruthless fighter, going after insurance companies to get his clients the highest settlement available.
Education
Pepperdine University School of Law
JD – Juris Doctor
1984
University of California – Los Angeles
BA – Bachelor of Arts
1980
