Several people were injured in a Los Angeles car accident involving multiple vehicles the morning of May 18, 2010. According to an Associated Press news report, the injury crash occurred in the 5100 block of South Arlington Avenue. One of the drivers fled the scene of the crash. Officials are looking for the driver who left the scene of this accident. Many of the injured victims were reportedly treated by paramedics at the scene. It is not clear if anyone sustained serious injuries in this crash. So far, the description of the hit-and-run vehicle has not been made available.

I sympathize with all the victims of this crash. I hope no one suffered any major injuries and wish everyone the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.

Car Accidents in Los Angeles

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 268 fatalities and 25,588 injuries involving car accidents in the city of Los Angeles. Countywide, 667 people died and 52,229 were injured as a result of car accidents during the same year.

Hit-and-Run Laws

Leaving the scene of a car accident or hit-and-run is a serious crime under California law. 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." Motorists who are involved in car accidents are not only required to stop and remain at the scene of a crash, but they must also exchange important information with the other parties and most importantly, get help for the injured victims. In this case, the driver apparently did none of the above.

Protecting Victims' Rights

Investigating any accident involving multiple vehicles and several victims can be complicated because of potentially differing accounts from the victims and witnesses about exactly what happened. In such cases, it is important that the seriously injured victims consult with an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer, who will analyze all facets of the accident and make sure that the negligent parties are held accountable.

In a hit-and-run accident, the biggest challenge is that there is no one to hold accountable, unless the suspect is apprehended. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will be able to advise victims about how their own car insurance policy applies to a hit-and-run collision or in a case where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.

What is the best method to encourage the public to report hit-and-run drivers?

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.