Pedestrian Killed in San Bernardino Car Accident
Michael Wayne Hartley, 34, was killed in a Victorville car accident after he was struck by a vehicle along Highway 395 the morning of July 4, 2010. According to news reports, Hartley was walking south in the number two lane on the highway, near Dos Palmas Road, when he was hit from behind. The driver did not stop and fled the scene. Hartley was pronounced dead at the scene. An investigation is ongoing. Anyone who witnessed this crash is asked to contact San Bernardino Sheriff's Deputy James Snow at 760-241-2911.
I offer my heartfelt condolences to everyone who knew and loved Michael Wayne Hartley. I trust the hit-and-run driver in this case will soon be apprehended and brought to justice. Please keep the victim's grieving family in your prayers.
Pedestrian Accidents
According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were seven fatalities and 20 injuries involvingpedestrian accidents in Victorville. In San Bernardino County as a whole, 39 people died and 432 were injured as a result of pedestrian accidents during the same year.
Leaving the Scene of an Accident
If the details of this news report are accurate, eyewitnesses told authorities that Hartley was drinking alcohol at a gas station in the neighborhood just before the accident. However, it is not known whether Hartley was under the influence or whether he was walking in traffic lanes at the time.
Whatever the cause of the accident, under California law, motorists are required to stop and remain at the scene of the crash. California Vehicle Code 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." Drivers are required to stop regardless of whose fault the accident was.
Claim for Compensation
In such cases, families of deceased victims would be well-advised to consult with an experienced San Bernardino personal injury lawyer, who will stay on top of the official investigation and make sure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. Where negligence or wrongdoing is involved families of deceased accident victims can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation to cover medical or funeral expenses, lost future earnings, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages.
If there was a dangerous or defective condition on the roadway that caused the accident, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining that roadway could also be held liable. Please remember that any personal injury or wrongful death claim against a governmental entity must be filed within 180 days of the accident or injury under California Government Code section 911.2.
What are some of the most dangerous roadways for pedestrians in your city or neighborhood?
None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.
