A devastating accident on Friday, April 25, claimed the life of 12-year-old Emery Chalekian after she was struck by a vehicle while crossing the street in a crosswalk. The incident occurred at approximately 6:51 pm at the intersection of Encinitas Boulevard and Village Square Drive.
According to the North Coastal Sheriff’s Station, Chalekian was walking through the crosswalk when she was hit by an SUV. Authorities believe the SUV had just been involved in a collision with another car at the intersection before striking the young pedestrian. Chalekian was pronounced dead at the scene.
Both drivers remained at the location and cooperated with authorities. No injuries to the drivers were reported, and investigators do not believe drugs or alcohol were contributing factors. The crash remains under investigation by the North Coastal Station Traffic Investigators and the Sheriff’s Traffic Accident Reconstruction Team.
If you have lost a loved one in a car vs pedestrian accident, contact Singleton Schreiber for compassionate legal guidance. Our team will work closely with you and your family to help you understand your rights and explore your options.
The Dangers of Pedestrian vs Vehicle Collisions
Pedestrian fatalities remain a persistent public safety issue, especially at intersections where visibility and reaction times can play a critical role. Drivers have a responsibility to remain vigilant and cautious, particularly near crosswalks and during high-traffic hours. Some common ways drivers may cause pedestrian accidents include:
- Failing to yield at crosswalks even when pedestrians have the right of way
- Speeding through intersections reduces the ability to stop in time for crossing pedestrians
- Distracted driving, such as using a cell phone or adjusting in-car systems
- Running red lights or ignoring traffic signals increases the likelihood of secondary collisions
- Following too closely or making unsafe lane changes, which can lead to chain reaction crashes
- Driving too fast for conditions, particularly during low-light hours or bad weather
In this heartbreaking case, the chain of events leading to the crash highlights how even brief lapses in judgment or care can have fatal consequences for vulnerable road users.
“No parent should ever have to endure the loss of a child in a preventable traffic accident,” says Gerald Singleton, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber. “Our firm has seen firsthand how lives can be changed forever in an instant, and we are committed to helping families seek answers, accountability, and justice in the aftermath of these tragedies.”
Legal Options for the Family
Emery Chalekian’s family may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim against the at-fault parties. Even though both drivers remained at the scene and were reportedly not impaired, the investigation may uncover negligent behavior, such as unsafe speeds, failure to yield, or other traffic violations, that contributed to the fatal crash.
A wrongful death claim may allow the family to obtain compensation for:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Pain and suffering endured by surviving family members
- Loss of companionship
- And more
While no amount of money can ever bring back their daughter or ease the deep emotional pain of her loss, a successful claim can help provide some measure of financial relief during this devastating time.
If you have lost a loved one in a pedestrian vs vehicle collision, contact Singleton Schreiber for compassionate legal help. Call us at (619) 771-3473 or email us at info@singletonschreiber.com to get started with a free consultation.
