An 8-year-old boy was seriously injured in a San Bernardino car accident after he was struck by a vehicle on August 7, 2010. According to a CBS News report, the injury collision occurred at the intersection of Ogden Street and Otono Court in Muscoy, as the boy was trying to cross the street. The driver who struck the boy left the scene of the crash. The suspect vehicle is described as a late 1990s silver or tan Chevy Silverado 2500 truck that had magnetic signage on the sides. The driver, witnesses say, may have been a male Hispanic in his mid 30s.

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My heart goes out to the young victim of this hit-and-run accident, who is apparently fighting for his life. I wish this child the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. He and his family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 39 fatalities and 432 injuries involving pedestrian accidents in San Bernardino County. Also, countywide, 263 people died and 8,504 were injured as a result of car accidents during the same year.

Laws and Liability Issues

It is illegal for motorists in California to leave the scene of a car crash. Drivers are required to stop, remain at the scene until authorities arrive, exchange important information with other parties involved and most importantly, render aid to the injured victim or victims. 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."

Based on this news report, it is not clear why the boy got hit. We also do not know if the child was walking in a crosswalk. Irrespective of whose fault this accident was, the driver should have remained at the scene under California law. In this case, the family of the injured child would be well-advised to consult with an experienced San Bernardino personal injury lawyer, who will fight for their rights and help protect their best interests. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will also advise them about how their own car insurance policy applies to a hit-and-run collision or to an incident where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.

Are there intersections in your neighborhood that are unsafe for children to cross?

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.