A family’s routine driving lesson ended in tragedy on Memorial Day when a single-vehicle crash claimed the life of a Laguna Beach father. The incident, which occurred on May 26, 2025, is currently under investigation by local authorities.
Details of the Crash
According to reports from Fox4 News and corroborated by KTLA, the accident happened around 4:15 p.m. on Coast Highway between Wesley and Montage Resort drives. James Politoski, 64, was instructing his 15-year-old daughter, who held a learner’s permit, when the vehicle lost control in the upper parking lot of the now-closed Gelson’s Market at 24 Monarch Bay Plaza.
Sequence of Events
The preliminary investigation by the Laguna Beach Police Department revealed that the car crashed through a fence, then careened down a 40-foot embankment before landing upside down on Coast Highway. The force of the crash was significant, and emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene.
Victims and Injuries
James Politoski, the only passenger and the father of the driver, was pronounced dead at the scene. His daughter sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where she is expected to recover. ABC7 Eyewitness News also reported that no other vehicles were involved in the incident.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have not yet determined the exact cause of the crash. The Laguna Beach Police Department is continuing its investigation, and toxicology reports are pending as part of standard procedure. Investigators are also examining whether mechanical failure, driver error, or other factors contributed to the accident.
Community Response
The tragic event has deeply affected the Laguna Beach community. Friends and neighbors have expressed condolences and are rallying to support the Politoski family during this difficult time. The incident has also sparked conversations about teen driver safety and the importance of supervised driving lessons.
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What Happens Next
As the investigation continues, police are urging witnesses or anyone with additional information to come forward. The results of the investigation may lead to recommendations or changes in local driving education practices.
Safety Measures to Prevent Accidents During Driving Lessons
To prevent accidents during driving lessons, it is essential to ensure the vehicle is well-maintained and equipped with functional dual controls, such as brakes and accelerators for the instructor. Pre-lesson checks of brakes, tires, lights, and mirrors help avoid mechanical failures. Selecting appropriate routes that match the learner’s skill level, starting with quiet streets and gradually progressing to more complex roads also reduces risk. Clear communication between instructor and learner, including timely warnings and calm guidance, helps learners anticipate and safely respond to driving situations.
Teaching Defensive Driving Techniques is Vital for Learner Drivers
This includes maintaining safe following distances, constantly scanning mirrors and the road ahead, signaling intentions clearly, and checking blind spots. Instructors should foster a supportive environment to help learners manage stress and build confidence gradually, as anxiety can impair judgment and reaction times. Additionally, having an emergency plan, including safe stopping areas and first-aid preparedness, ensures readiness in case of unexpected incidents.
Display Visible ‘Learner Driver’ Signage Alerts
Finally, displaying visible ‘Learner Driver’ signage alerts other drivers to exercise caution around the vehicle. Instructors must remain vigilant, keeping hands near controls and managing speed to maintain vehicle control. Together, these measures create a safer learning environment that minimizes risks and equips new drivers with the skills and confidence necessary for safe driving on public roads.
