Long Beach, CA – Rodger Watkins Killed in Two-Vehicle Crash on Long Beach Ave.

Long Beach, CA (February 21, 2024) – A 60-year-old man lost his life in a two-car accident that took place in Long Beach on Tuesday, February 20th. The crash occurred just before midnight on Atlantic Avenue at the intersection with Anaheim Street.

According to police, 60-year-old Rodger Lee Watkins, of Long Beach, was operating a 2012 Ford Focus eastbound on Anaheim approaching the intersection with Atlantic Avenue. At the same time, a 2012 Lexus IS250 was traveling northbound on Atlantic. The Lexus broadsided the Focus as both cars arrived at the intersection. The Focus then struck a traffic signal and an abandoned building. The Lexus collided with a bus bench. Watkins suffered critical injuries and died as a result of the crash. The Lexus driver, a 31-year-old from Long Beach, was taken to a hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The Lexus driver’s identity has not been released.

Officials believe that speeding, distracted driving, and impairment all played a role in the accident. An investigation is underway. No further information has been released.

We would like to offer our most sincere condolences to the family of Rodger Lee Watkins in the aftermath of this fatal car accident in Long Beach.

Fatal Car Accidents in California 

According to statistics, more than 4,000 people, on average, are killed each year in California car accidents. These accidents tend to take place very suddenly and unexpectedly. Unfortunately, innocent motorists are often affected by a fatal crash due to the actions of careless and reckless drivers. Some of the most common types of driver negligence include: speeding, distraction, impaired driving, and failing to yield the right of way. The cause of every California car accident must be carefully investigated by authorities in order to determine who should be held legally responsible.

Under California law, victims and family members may have certain valuable legal rights following a crash. If have lost a loved one in the crash, you could be entitled to compensation. Under California’s wrongful death law, family members can file a lawsuit on behalf of their deceased relative and can recover a variety of damages associated with the crash. The wrongful death procedures are complicated, however, and it is important that these cases are only handled by a skilled and experienced attorney.

Here at Benji Personal Injury, we strongly advocate for injured crash victims and family members. We have successfully recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients and we would be honored to assist you as well. We know that the days and weeks following a serious crash can seem overwhelming, however, we will help protect your legal rights and secure your future.

We are here to take your call at any time. Our firm provides a free consultation and case evaluation for all potential and prospective clients. During the consultation, we will go over all of your legal rights and options to ensure that you make the best decision for your future. There is no obligation until we obtain a recovery on your behalf. To schedule your free appointment with a Long Beach car accident attorney, please contact us by using the link on our website or give us a call at 866-236-5474.