News Briefs

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PCH accident victims sue Caltrans

A lawsuit was filed this week for an unspecified amount against the California Department of Transportation on behalf of four bicyclists who were injured while riding on Pacific Coast Highway last year in August. According to a press release from a law firm representing the cyclists, the injuries, which included concussions and broken bones, were the result of an unprotected job site that the cyclists encountered without warning. Caltrans is responsible for PCH, and they had hired an outside contractor for a re-paving job near Zuma Beach, the site of the injuries.

Attorney Howard Krepack of Gordon, Edelstein, Krepack, Grant, Felton and Goldstein, said, “Caltrans did not do their job.” He further stated that the state agency is responsible for informing the public about highway construction and added that, “it still comes down to many innocent people being seriously injured.”

Caltrans spokesperson Patrick Chandler declined comment.

Victim looks for help following hit and run

A victim of an Oct. 9 hit and run on Pacific Coast Highway at Latigo Canyon Road is looking for help in identifying the suspect.

The incident occurred at approximately 11:15 p.m. The victim wrote in an e-mail to The Malibu Times that she was at a stop sign waiting to turn left onto the highway when a car came around the corner. The car collided with the stopped vehicle at approximately 50 mph. The victim called the crash “severe,” which caused all the air bags to deploy. The air bags also prevented the victim from seeing the driver. The suspect would likely have significant vehicle damage, including broken lights.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to call the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station at 310.456.6652.

Lost Hills’ theft avoidance tips

The Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station released a statement reminding citizens to protect their property. The holidays are approaching, which means an increase in shopping and opportunities for theft.

Lost Hills officials caution against leaving any packages, mail or other personal items in plain view in any vehicle. Items should be placed in the trunk or left at home. It is also safer to park vehicles in a garage or driveway rather than on the street. Residents are also reminded not to forget to lock vehicles and residences.

In the Malibu area this year there have been 147 thefts from unlocked vehicles and 139 from unlocked homes. While this area has a low crime rate, it is still important to take precautions against theft to increase safety and avoid becoming a victim of property crime, Lost Hills officials said.

Third annual 5K to benefit homeless children

On Oct. 24 at 10 a.m., School on Wheels will host its third annual 5K Fun Run/Walk to benefit homeless children at the Zuma Beach public footpath. The entry fee is $15 and all proceeds will go to the charity. There will also be a raffle and prizes awarded to top participants. School on Wheels is a nonprofit organization that provides educational assistance and support to homeless children in grades K-12 throughout Southern California. For more information and to register, go to www.schoolonwheels.org.

Malibu Film Society to honor Rob Reiner

On Oct. 24, the Malibu Film Society will honor Rob Reiner, acclaimed director, writer and producer, as the Filmmaker of the Year. The event will begin with a catered reception, followed by the Filmmaker of the Year presentation with opening remarks by Carl Reiner. It will conclude with a screening of Reiner’s latest film “Flipped.”

The event will take place at the Malibu Screening Room at the Malibu Jewish Center & Synagogue, located at 24855 Pacific Coast Highway. Tickets are $65 for adults, $125 for couples and $30 for persons under 18. For more information, go to www.MalibuFilmSociety.org.