VENTURA : CHP Clears Driver in Road Worker’s Death
A 28-year-old Ventura man was not at fault when he struck and killed a Ventura city worker who was picking up traffic cones on Victoria Avenue last month, according to a report by the California Highway Patrol.
Ruben Ramirez, 57, died Aug. 19, a week after being hit by Patrick J. Biondo, who was changing lanes at the time of the accident.
CHP Patrol Sgt. Dane Hayward said Biondo was driving within the speed limit at 40 m.p.h. and was making a legal lane change.
But his view of Ramirez was blocked until the last second.
Biondo’s brakes locked just before the accident as he tried to swerve and avoid hitting Ramirez, Hayward said.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
