On August 31, 2026, a fatal hit-and-run crash occurred on eastbound State Route 38 near Green Way Drive in Big Bear City, San Bernardino County. A 90-year-old driver, Donald Parker, was arrested after reportedly driving through a construction zone and striking a construction worker.
The victim, Edgar Chavez, 43, from Riverside, was working at the scene when he was hit. He was transported to a hospital but later died from his injuries. Parker fled the scene without stopping to render aid or report the collision.
California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers located and arrested Parker in Big Bear Lake. He faces charges including voluntary manslaughter and hit-and-run involving injury. The investigation remains ongoing.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a serious traffic collision, it is important to understand your rights and legal options. Contact experienced attorneys to help you navigate the claims process.
Start Your Claim: If you have been affected by a serious accident, reach out to trusted Los Angeles County personal injury attorneys for a free consultation to discuss your case.
What Happened in the Crash
According to CHP reports, the crash happened early in the morning around 7:07 a.m. on State Route 38, eastbound, just past Green Way Drive. Donald Parker, the 90-year-old driver, was traveling through a construction zone when he drove through the cone pattern that closed the lane.
In doing so, Parker struck Edgar Chavez, a construction worker present at the site. Instead of stopping, Parker continued driving and left the scene, which constitutes a hit-and-run under California law.
Emergency responders took Chavez to the hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries. Parker was later apprehended and booked on serious charges related to the incident.
Why This Location or Type of Crash Raises Serious Safety Concerns
State Route 38 in Big Bear City is a mountainous corridor that often requires lane closures for maintenance and construction. Work zones are inherently dangerous areas where drivers must exercise extra caution.
Construction zones with cone patterns and lane closures demand reduced speeds and heightened awareness. Failure to comply with these safety measures can lead to catastrophic consequences, as seen in this tragic incident.
Hit-and-run crashes in construction zones are particularly concerning because they endanger workers who rely on these protections to stay safe while performing their duties.
Legal Questions After This Type of Accident
Liability and Criminal Charges
In this case, the driver faces criminal charges including voluntary manslaughter and hit-and-run involving injury. These charges reflect the severity of the incident and the driver’s failure to stop and provide aid.
Civil liability may also be pursued by the victim’s family to seek compensation for wrongful death. The driver’s actions, including driving through a closed lane and fleeing the scene, may be relevant to establishing fault.
Insurance and Claims Process
Victims or their families may file claims with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. However, hit-and-run cases can complicate recovery, especially if the driver lacks sufficient insurance or assets.
Legal counsel can help victims navigate insurance claims, identify liable parties, and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and funeral costs.
Compensation That May Be Available After a Serious or Fatal Crash
Families of wrongful death victims may be entitled to compensation for economic and non-economic damages. This can include medical bills, funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional distress.
In cases involving catastrophic injury or death, damages can also cover loss of companionship and punitive damages if gross negligence is proven.
Consulting with experienced wrongful death attorneys can help families understand the full scope of potential compensation and legal remedies.
How Families Can Protect Their Rights
After a fatal accident, families should preserve evidence such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements. Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters without legal representation to prevent compromising your claim.
Engaging a qualified legal team early can ensure that deadlines are met and rights are protected throughout the investigation and claims process.
For families impacted by fatal accidents, trusted wrongful death attorneys can provide guidance and support during this difficult time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am involved in a hit-and-run accident?
Immediately call 911 to report the incident and seek medical attention. Try to gather as much information as possible about the other vehicle and witnesses.
Can victims recover damages if the at-fault driver is elderly?
Yes, age does not exempt a driver from liability. Victims can pursue claims regardless of the driver’s age.
How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in California?
The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in California is generally two years from the date of death.
Is it necessary to hire an attorney after a fatal construction zone accident?
Yes, an attorney can help navigate complex legal and insurance issues and advocate for fair compensation.
If you or your family have been affected by a serious or fatal accident, contact the experienced team at Golden Coast Trial Attorneys for a free case review. Protect your rights and get the support you need during this challenging time.
Original source: KTLA News
