Steven Joseph Vega, 29, was killed in a motorcycle accident in the San Fernando Valley, which officials say, involved a hit-and-run driver. According to a report in the Los Angeles Daily News, the fatal motorcycle accident occurred at the intersection of Devonshire Street and Arleta Avenue early morning on June 4, 2016. Police said the black and white 2009 Suzuki motorcycle was traveling east on Devonshire and was turning south on to Arleta Avenue when it collided with an unknown vehicle.
Vega was ejected from the motorcycle. He was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead. The driver of the vehicle fled the scene and is wanted on suspicion of hit-and-run. Officials have offered a $50,000 reward to those who can provide information about the hit-and-run driver. Anyone with information is asked to call LAPD at 818-644-8000.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family members and friends of Stephen Joseph Vega for their tragic loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Crash Statistics
According to California Highway Patrol’s 2013 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 105 fatalities and 3,509 injuries reported as a result of motorcycle accidents in Los Angeles County. Also, countywide, 585 people died and 50,917 were injured as a result of traffic accidents during the same year.
Laws and Liability Issues
Based on this news report, officials are still looking into how and why this crash occurred. They are also looking for the driver of the vehicle who struck the motorcyclist and fled the scene without helping the injured victim. Under California law, motorists are required to stop immediately and remain at the scene of crash, regardless 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.”
In such cases where negligence or wrongdoing may be a factor, families of deceased motorcycle accident victims may be able to file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for damages including medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering and loss of love and companionship. An experienced Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyer will be able to advise victims’ families in such cases regarding their legal rights and options.