Elkhorn, CA – On the early morning of Wednesday, April 2, 2025, 55-year-old Thao Van Le was fatally struck by a vehicle in Monterey County, according to KSBW.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 2:35 AM at the intersection of Dolan Road and Avila Road.
Authorities stated that Le was in the roadway at the time of the collision when a gray Toyota minivan traveling westbound on Dolan Road struck him. The impact caused fatal injuries, and Le was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Toyota minivan remained at the location and cooperated with investigators. No injuries were reported for the driver, and authorities have not indicated whether speed or impairment played a role in the crash.
Le was later identified by the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office. Officials have not determined why he was in the roadway at the time of the collision, and it remains unclear whether any additional factors contributed to the accident.
The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact local authorities.
Duty of Care Toward Pedestrians
Drivers have a Duty of Care towards pedestrians, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for pedestrians near the roadway and, if a collision occurs, staying with the victim to ensure they get proper medical treatment and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
Partial Liability in Pedestrian Accidents
California Law does not consider pedestrians to have the right-of-way under all circumstances, such as if they attempt to cross outside of a crosswalk. However, motorists are never relieved of the expectation to provide pedestrians with a Duty of Care toward their safety.
It may therefore be determined that a motorist is subject to only partial liability in a pedestrian accident. Should that be the case, they would be financially responsible for the victim’s recovery costs in proportion to their degree of liability.
California Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a California Pedestrian Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
