Personal Injury Attorney News » Hit And Run Accident

San Diego Hit-and-Run Collision Injures Pedestrian

Sam — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 22:31:33 +0000

A 26-year-old man was seriously injured in a San Diego car accident after he was struck by a vehicle at a local intersection. According to a news report in The San Diego Union-Tribune, the pedestrian was crossing at the intersection of Grand Avenue and Cass Street the morning of August 28, 2010 when he was struck by a pickup truck. Officials say the driver of the pickup drove away without stopping. Based on witness reports, officials say the pedestrian was crossing against the light. The pickup driver apparently had the green light. The victim suffered a broken pelvis. Authorities are looking for the hit-and-run suspect. No further description is available.

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I hope this pedestrian has not sustained catastrophic injuries. I wish him the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. Please keep him in your prayers.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol’s 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 23 fatalities and 533 personal injuries in San Diego as a result of pedestrian accidents. In San Diego County as a whole, 63 people were killed and 998 people were injured in pedestrian accidents during the same year.

Hit-And-Run Law

In California, it is against the law to leave the scene of an accident. 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."

The law requires drivers to stop, remain at the scene and obtain medical assistance for the injured victim – irrespective of whose fault the accident was. In this case, the driver of the pickup truck may not have even faced charges if he or she had stayed at the scene. Now, he or she likely faces a felony hit-and-run charge.

Claim for Compensation

In this case, I trust officials are still talking to additional witnesses to determine the circumstances of the crash. The injured victim would be well-advised to seek the counsel of an experienced San Diego personal injury lawyer, who will stay on top of the official investigation and ensure that his or her legal rights are protected. A skilled car accident lawyer will also be able to determine whether there was a dangerous condition on the roadway, which may have caused or contributed to the incident. If that was the case, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway could also be held liable. Under California Government Code section 911.2, any personal injury claim against a public entity must be filed within six months of the incident.

Are there any intersections in your city or neighborhood that are unsafe for pedestrians?

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.

Los Angeles Hit-and-Run Collision Kills Pregnant Bicyclist

Sandy — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 23:00:12 +0000

Jennifer Costlow, 31, was killed in a Los Angeles car accident after she was struck by a car, which then fled the scene. According to a news report in The Daily Breeze, the fatal hit-and-run collision occurred the night of August 13, 2010 on Normandie Avenue, near Gardena Boulevard, in Gardena. Costlow and her boyfriend, Aaron Randall Desmond, were riding their bikes south on Normandie when a dark colored two-door car struck her. The car was last seen turning west onto 166th Street and driving away.

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Reporting Hit-and-Run Collisions

Authorities are searching for witnesses to help them find the driver who caused this fatal Gardena accident. Police are describing the suspect vehicle as a dark-colored, two-door car. There is no description available of the suspect. Gardena police detectives are asking anyone who witnessed this fatal crash to call them at 310-217-6135. If you have information about the vehicle or suspect, please visit www.hitandrunreward.com to find out how you can leave an anonymous tip. The web site, operated by the Newport Beach personal injury law firm of BISNAR|CHASE will report your tip to the WeTip Crime Hotline. We promise a $1,000 reward to individuals who offer tips that lead to an arrest and felony conviction. The hotline is geared to respond to both, English and Spanish speakers.

A Real Tragedy

My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved Jennifer Costlow. All fatal car accidents are tragic, but hit-and-run collisions are especially heartbreaking because the victims' families don't know who did it. In this case, the driver not only struck a woman who was four months pregnant, but left her to die on the roadway. According to the news report, she was bleeding profusely from the head, struggled to breathe and died a "horrible death." Heartbreaking!

Hit-and-Run Law, Statistics and Liability Issues

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

Leaving the scene of an accident is not only immoral and inhumane, but it is also illegal 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."

In such cases, families of deceased victims would be well-advised to seek the legal counsel of an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer to get more information about pursuing their legal rights. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will also advise victims' families about how their own car insurance policy might apply to a hit-and-run collision or to a case where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.

Would you report a hit-and-run suspect if you could do so anonymously?

Fatal Motorcycle Accident Involving Hit-and-Run Driver

Sandy — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 23:03:56 +0000

Lloyd Mockel, 43, was killed in a motorcycle accident after a collision on Highway 29 the evening of August 7, 2010. According to a news report in the Napa Valley Register, Mockel was traveling south in a 2003 Suzuki motorcycle when he rear-ended the vehicle that was in front of him. The fatal crash occurred at the border of Napa and Lake counties near Robert Louis Stevenson State Park.

Mockel was ejected from his motorcycle, hit the rear of the vehicle before him and then landed on the roadway. Although he was wearing a helmet, Mockel sustained major injuries and was airlifted to a regional hospital where he died. The driver of the vehicle that Mockel's motorcycle struck left the scene of the crash. Anyone who saw this crash is asked to call California Highway Patrol officials at 707-253-4953.

I offer my deepest sympathies to everyone who knew and loved Lloyd Mockel for their devastating loss. Please keep his grieving family in your thoughts and prayers.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics

According to CHP's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were two fatalities and 16 injuries involving motorcycle accidents in the unincorporated areas of Napa County. Also, countywide, motorcycle accidents claimed five lives and caused 85 injuries during the same year.

Hit-and-Run Law and Liability Issues

Leaving the scene of an accident or hit-and-run is a serious crime under California law – irrespective of whose fault the accident was. Motorists are required under the law to stop immediately, remain at the scene of the crash and administer aid to the injured victim. 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."

In such cases, families of deceased victims would be well-advised to consult with a skilled San Francisco personal injury lawyer, who will stay on top of the official investigation and make sure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. A knowledgeable car accident attorney will also advise families about how their car insurance policy might apply to a hit-and-run crash or to an incident where the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured.

Would you call the authorities if you saw a hit-and-run crash?

San Bernardino Hit-and-Run Car Accident Injures Boy

admin — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 22:57:51 +0000

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?

LAPD Officer Injured in Hit-and-Run Collision

admin — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 23:16:55 +0000

A motorcycle officer was injured in a Los Angeles car accident after she was rear-ended by an SUV, the morning of July 27, 2010. According to a news report in The Press Telegram, the accident occurred in Long Beach at the intersection of Second Street and Marina Drive. The officer was riding east on Second Street, when a green Ford Explorer struck her from behind. The officer sustained serious, but non-life-threatening injuries. The Explorer left the scene. Police are looking for the hit-and-run suspect. Anyone with information is asked to contact Long Beach police officials at 562-435-6711.

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I'm relieved to hear that this police officer survived this crash and has not sustained critical injuries. I wish her the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. She will be in my thoughts and prayers. I also trust that this hit-and-run driver will be apprehended and brought to justice.

Motorcycle Accidents

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were two fatalities and 100 injuries involving motorcycle accidents in Long Beach. In Los Angeles County as a whole, 114 people died and 2,934 were injured as a result of motorcycle accidents during the same year.

Hit-and-Run Law

Based on this news report, it appears that the area where this injury collision occurred was a construction zone with heavy traffic. Police say the driver of the Explorer attempted to go down the right lane to avoid traffic when he or she rear-ended the motorcycle.

Whatever the cause of the collision was, it was against the law for this driver to have fled after a crash. California law requires motorists to stop and remain at the scene of a crash, exchange information and administer aid to injured victims at the scene. They are required to do this, irrespective of whose fault the accident was. 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."

Victim's Claim for Compensation

In this particular case, the officer appears to have been on duty. So she could be entitled to worker's compensation benefits from her employer. In addition, injured victims in such cases can also seek third-party compensation from the negligent driver, when located. An experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer will advise victims in such cases about their legal rights and options. A knowledgeable car accident attorney will also explain how the victim's auto insurance policy might apply to a hit-and-run collision or to an incident where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.

In your opinion, what is the main reason a driver would leave the scene of an accident?

Boy Killed in Los Angeles Hit-and-Run Car Crash

Sam — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 23:13:03 +0000

Natanael Garcia, 11, was killed in a Los Angeles car accident after he was struck by a vehicle at a local intersection. According to a CBS News report, police are looking for a female driver who they say struck the boy at the intersection of 76th and Hoover streets in South Los Angeles and then fled the scene the afternoon of July 15, 2010.

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Witnesses apparently saw the driver, described only as a Latino woman in an SUV, get out of the car, check on the boy and then drive away. One witness attempted to follow the woman, but lost her. Police are optimistic that they will apprehend the suspect because they have a good description, surveillance tape of the car and a partial license plate. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the South Traffic Division Detectives at 323-290-6063.

I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Natanael Garcia for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 104 fatalities and 2,716 injuries involving pedestrian accidents in the city of Los Angeles. In Los Angeles County as a whole, 214 people died and 4,985 were injured as a result of pedestrian accidents during the same year.

Hit-and-Run Law and Liability Issues

I trust this hit-and-run driver will soon be apprehended and brought to justice. Leaving the scene of an accident 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."

In such cases, it would be in the best interests of victims' families to contact an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer, who will stay on top of the official investigation and make sure that the negligent parties are held accountable. In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased victims could 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.

What are some ways by which hit-and-run collisions could be diminished or eradicated? We would like to hear your ideas and opinions.

Hit-and-Run Crash Injures Motorcyclist

Sandy — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 22:35:13 +0000

John David Wirick, 56, sustained major injuries in a Sacramento car accident the afternoon of July 10, 2010. According to a news report in The Appeal-Democrat, Wirick was riding a 2005 Harley-Davidson north on Plumas Arboga Road in Yuba County when an oncoming Chevy pickup truck drifted out of the southbound lane.

Wirick tried to avoid the pickup truck, but instead ended up going off the road onto the shoulder. He struck a metal marker and crashed. He was airlifted to an area hospital where he remains in serious condition. The driver of the Chevrolet left the scene of the crash. California Highway Patrol officials are describing the suspect vehicle as an extended cab model, brown or khaki with tinted rear windows. If you have information, please contact CHP at 530-674-5141.

My heart goes out to the injured motorcyclist in this case. I hope he makes it through these critical injuries and pray that he recovers quickly and completely. He and his family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics

According to CHP's 2008 traffic accident statistics, there was one fatality and seven injuries involving motorcycle accidents in Yuba County. Also, in Yuba County as a whole, 12 people died and 287 were injured as a result of car accidents during the same year.

The Law and Compensation Issues

I trust the hit-and-run driver in this case will soon be apprehended and brought to justice. Leaving the scene of an accident 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." The law requires that motorists stop, remain at the scene until authorities arrive and administer aid to the injured victim. In this particular case, the driver of the pickup truck, who authorities say caused the accident, did none of the above.

Injured victims in such cases, would be well-advised to contact an experienced Sacramento personal injury lawyer, who will stay on top of the investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. A skilled car accident lawyer will also be able to explain to victims how their own auto insurance policy applies to a hit-and-run collision or an incident where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.

How can we help curb or eradicate hit-and-run collisions? In your opinion, what are some of the best ways and methods of getting to that point?

Fatal Culver City Car Accident Involves Hit-and-run Driver

Sam — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 21:00:16 +0000

Brandon David Brown, 31, was killed in a Los Angeles car accident the morning of June 20, 2010 after the vehicle he was driving struck an SUV that was stopped in the northbound carpool lane of the 405 Freeway, near Culver City. According to a CBS News report, Brown died at the scene after driving his Toyota Tercel into the back of the SUV. California Highway Patrol officials say the SUV fled the scene without stopping to provide aid for the injured victim. Authorities are looking for the hit-and-run suspect and vehicle. An investigation is ongoing.

My heart goes out to the family and friends of Brandon David Brown for their tragic loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Car Accident Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were three fatalities and 267 injuries involving car accidents in Culver City. In Los Angeles County as a whole, 667 people died and 52,229 were injured as a result of car accidents during the same year.

Hit-and-Run Law

Leaving the scene of an accident or hit-and-run is a serious criminal offense 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."

Drivers are required to remain at the scene of the crash, regardless of fault for the collision, exchange information with other parties and administer aid to the injured victim. In this particular case, there are still a number of questions. Why was the SUV stopped in the carpool lane? That motorist apparently drove away leaving Brown critically injured. I trust officials are looking into all possible factors for this horrific crash and will soon locate the hit-and-run suspect.

Claim for Compensation

In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased victims can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation to cover medical and funeral expenses, lost future earnings, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages. An experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer will be able to advise families about their legal rights and options. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will also be able to tell families about how their car insurance policy might apply to a hit-and-run crash or in a case where the at-fault motorist is uninsured or underinsured.

What more should our legislators be doing to crack down on hit-and-run drivers?

Woman Seriously Injured in San Diego Hit-and-Run Collision

admin — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 23:47:04 +0000

A 22-year-old woman who was walking her dog the night of June 13, 2010 was seriously injured in a hit-and-run collision after she was struck by a bicyclist from behind and knocked to the ground. The bicyclist fled the scene. According to a news report in the San Diego Union-Tribune, the woman was walking on Carmel Valley Road near Caminto Del Barco, when she was hit from behind. She apparently got up and walked back home, but later went to a hospital where it was determined that she had suffered a double skull fracture. The woman was not able to provide a description of the bicycle or its rider.

My heart goes out to this injured victim. I sincerely hope she has not suffered any catastrophic injuries and wish her the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. She will be in my prayers.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 23 fatalities and 533 injuries involving pedestrian accidents in San Diego. Countywide, 63 people died and 998 were injured as a result of pedestrian accidents during the same year.

Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious crime under California law, irrespective of who was at fault or what type of vehicle you are operating. 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." In this particular case, it is not clear how or why the bicyclist collided with the pedestrian. Whatever may have been the reason for the collision, the bicyclist should have stopped at the scene and helped the injured pedestrian.

Liability Issues

This incident also shows us the importance of visiting the doctor immediately after you have been involved in an injury accident. In some cases, victim are in shock and do not feel anything until hours, sometimes, even days after the accident. Serious internal injuries, such as head injuries or internal bleeding, may be overlooked and could potentially lead to death. It is absolutely critical that injured accident victims receive prompt medical attention.

Victims who have been injured as a result of negligence or wrongdoing can file a personal injury claim against the negligent party seeking compensation for medical expenses, loss of wages, cost of hospitalization, surgeries and other related expenses. A knowledgeable San Diego personal injury lawyer will also be able to advise victims about how their own auto insurance policy applies to a hit-and-run collision or in an incident where the at-fault motorist is uninsured or underinsured.

What are some of the most dangerous roadways for pedestrians and bicyclists in your city or neighborhood?

Elderly Pedestrian Killed in San Diego Car Accident

Sam — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 22:37:24 +0000

Richard Louis Canngiano, 73, was killed in a Vista car accident after he was struck by a vehicle while crossing the street the morning of June 9, 2010. According to a San Diego 6 news report, Canngiano was walking across East Vista Way in the 1300 block, when a vehicle hit him and sped away. A second driver ran over the fallen pedestrian. That vehicle, described as a Ford Ranger pickup truck, stopped momentarily and also fled the scene. Officials are looking for both drivers who left the site of the accident.

I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Richard Louis Canngiano for their tragic loss. Please keep them in your prayers.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there was one death and 33 injuries involving pedestrian accidents in Vista. In San Diego County as a whole, 63 people died and 998 were injured as a result of pedestrian accidents.

California Pedestrian Laws

Based on this news report, it is not clear whether Canngiano was crossing in a marked crosswalk. Canngiano was apparently living in a senior center close by. People who live there say a number of seniors cross that street every day. Motorists are required to yield right-of-way to pedestrians crossing in crosswalks or at intersections, under California law.

California Vehicle Code section 21950 states: "The driver of a vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian crossing the roadway within any marked crosswalk or within any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection." The same section also states that the driver of a vehicle approaching a pedestrian within any marked or unmarked crosswalk "shall exercise all due care and shall reduce the speed of a vehicle or take any other action relating to the operating of the vehicle as necessary to safeguard the safety of the pedestrian." It is also a serious crime to leave the scene of an accident under California Vehicle Code 20001 (a).

Claim for Compensation

In such cases injured victims or their families would be well-advised to contact an experienced San Diego personal injury lawyer, who will analyze all facets of the accident and make sure that the negligent parties are held liable. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will also advise families about how their car insurance policy might apply to a hit-and-run case or to an incident where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.

What are the most dangerous roadways or intersections for pedestrians in your city or neighborhood?