CHP: Ponomarenko Died After Red-Light Runner Hits Car in Encino

CRASH INVESTIGATION NEEDED

Coming to a complete stop at red lights is one of the most fundamental rules of the road, required of every driver.

Yet data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) shows that red-light-running crashes killed 1,149 people and injured roughly 100,000 more in 2022 alone. Such crashes are typically the result of driver distraction, excessive speed, impatience, or simply misjudging when a light is about to change.

Candice Bond, a seasoned auto accident attorney, has noted that cases like this call for a separate, independent investigation to safeguard the rights of the victim’s family.

“Alongside the thorough work carried out by law enforcement, an attorney can go back and speak with key witnesses, review available surveillance footage from the crash scene, and obtain phone and text records belonging to the at-fault party,” said Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal and national analyst for Accident Injury News. “Acting as an advocate, an attorney can offer a grieving family compassionate guidance during this difficult time while also protecting their legal rights and best interests.”

WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM

Yaroslav Ponomarenko’s family members may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim. Relatives of those who die in wrongful death cases can seek compensation for the loss of companionship, physical pain, suffering, and emotional distress caused by a tragic or catastrophic accident.

“We know firsthand what families endure in situations like this, and making sure their rights are protected matters enormously,” said Stefano Formica, Of Counsel with Bond Legal. “A wrongful death attorney keeps close track of the official investigation as it unfolds and works to safeguard the family’s best interests. Loved ones of wrongful death victims have the right to pursue damages for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress stemming from a tragic or catastrophic accident.”

(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)