A girl sustained critical injuries in a Los Angeles car accident, which officials say, was caused by an elderly hit-and-run driver. According to a news report in the Daily Breeze, the major injury collision occurred the afternoon of April 7, 2011 at the intersection of Emerald Street and Madrona Avenue in Torrance. Police say the 83-year-old man driving the vehicle struck the girl who was riding her bicycle and then took off. He was followed by witnesses who called police. Officers were able to arrest the driver a short distance away. Police say they plan on filing felony hit-and-run charges.

My heart goes out to this critically injured girl and her family for what they are going through at this time. I wish her the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. This young victim will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Hit-and-Run Statistics

According to the California Highway Patrol's traffic accident statistics, there were 17,158 hit-and-run car accidents that resulted in fatalities or injuries in California in 2008. A majority of these car accidents involved injuries. There were 247 deaths in 2008 involving hit-and-run collisions statewide.

Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Based on this news report, it appears that the girl was riding her bike at the intersection when she was hit by the elderly driver. Police say he had some type of medical condition. In my opinion, a hit-and-run is inexcusable regardless of what the driver's situation is. Leaving a critically injured child lying on the roadway without care of medical attention is unacceptable. Under California law, motorists are required to stop immediately and remain at the scene after an injury car accident.

California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a) states: "The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident."

Protecting Victims' Rights

I'm relieved that this driver was apprehended and trust he will be brought to justice soon. I commend the witnesses who followed the driver and contacted authorities. In such cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, injured victims or their families would be well-advised to contact an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer, who will stay on top of the official investigation and ensure that the victims' legal rights and best interests are protected.

A skilled car accident attorney should also be able to determine whether a dangerous or defective roadway may have caused or contributed to this car accident. If that was the case, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway could be held liable for the girl's injuries and damages as well. Under California Government Code Section 911.2, any personal injury claim against a governmental agency must be properly filed within 180 days of the incident.

Seriously injured in a Los Angeles County car accident? Want to know if you have a case? Want to know what your case is worth? Want compensation for your injuries? Want justice? Want to make sure the same thing doesn’t happen to someone else?

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