Los Angeles, CA – Pedestrian Killed on I-110 Identified as Derek Clay

Los Angeles, CA (January 21, 2025) – Authorities have identified 32-year-old Derek Clay as the victim of a fatal pedestrian accident that took place Sunday evening in South Los Angeles. The collision occurred at approximately 5:15 p.m. on January 19 in the express lane of the Harbor (110) Freeway near West Slauson Avenue.

Reports from the California Highway Patrol indicate that Clay was struck by a vehicle in the express lane. Despite the swift arrival of emergency responders, Clay succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators are currently working to determine the circumstances that led to the accident. It remains unclear why Clay was in the roadway at the time of the crash. No additional details regarding the vehicle or driver involved have been released. The express lane was briefly closed while officials conducted an on-scene investigation, causing delays in the area.

This tragic loss has left many mourning Derek Clay, and we extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.

Pedestrian Accidents in California

California leads the nation in pedestrian accidents, with over 7,500 pedestrian deaths reported between 2010 and 2020, according to state safety reports. Urban centers such as Los Angeles are particularly prone to these tragic events due to high traffic density and fast-paced roadways like the Harbor Freeway.

To better understand pedestrian accidents, here are a few contributing factors:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers failing to pay full attention are a common cause of collisions with pedestrians, especially on high-speed freeways.
• Pedestrian Presence on Freeways: Pedestrian access to areas like express lanes can lead to dangerous interactions between foot traffic and vehicles.
• Lighting and Visibility: Nighttime crashes or low-visibility conditions significantly increase the risk of accidents.
• Speeding: Excessive speeds leave drivers with little time to respond to unexpected obstacles on the road.

Pedestrian accidents often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities, leaving families devastated. If you’ve lost a loved one in such an incident, it’s important to know your rights. Contacting a dedicated legal team right away can help you get justice.

If you are dealing with the aftermath of a pedestrian accident, the legal team at Countrywide Trial Lawyers is here to assist. We understand the challenges families face in these heartbreaking circumstances. Call us at 844-844-9119 for a free case evaluation.

Our dedicated Los Angeles wrongful death attorneys are committed to helping you secure the justice and compensation you deserve. You don’t have to face this alone—let Countrywide Trial Lawyers provide the support you need.