A South San Francisco man identified as 25-year-old Juan Francisco Navarro Flores was fatally injured in a pedestrian accident on Highway 101 early morning on June 5, 2010. According to a Bay City News report, the fatal collision occurred on the Sierra Point Parkway off-ramp in Brisbane. The driver fled the scene of the accident. But other drivers passing by apparently saw the collision, pulled over and called 911. Flores died at the scene. If you witnessed this incident or have any information about the suspect or vehicle, please call California Highway Patrol at 510-286-6923. So far, no vehicle description has been made available.

I offer my heartfelt sympathies to everyone who knew and loved Flores for their devastating loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Accident Statistics

There were eight fatalities and 250 injuries involving pedestrian accidents in San Mateo County in 2008, according to CHP's traffic accident statistics. Also, countywide, 36 people died and 2,673 were injured as a result of car accidents during the same year.

Hit-and-Run Laws

Leaving the scene of an accident or hit-and-run is a serious crime under California law. According to California Vehicle Code 20001 (a): "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."

The law requires motorists to stop immediately after an accident, remain at the scene of the accident, exchange important information such as insurance, driver's license and other contact details and most importantly, obtain medical aid for the injured victim. Drivers are required to remain at the scene, regardless of whose fault the accident was. In this particular case, the motorist chose to drive away. I trust he or she will be apprehended and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

Claim for Compensation

Families of deceased car accident victims, in such cases, would be well-advised to contact an experienced San Francisco personal injury lawyer who will stay abreast of the official investigation and make sure that the family's legal rights and best interests are protected. A skilled car accident lawyer will also be able to determine whether a dangerous or defective roadway condition caused or contributed to this accident. If that was the case the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway could also be held liable. Please remember that any such claim against a public entity in California must be properly filed within 180 days of the accident or injury.

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.