A 45-year-old man was killed in a pedestrian accident in Highland while riding a skateboard.
According to a news report in The Press-Enterprise, the fatal collision occurred early on the morning of July 22 on East 3rd Street, east of Tippecanoe Avenue.
Police said the man was riding a skateboard westbound when he was struck by a car that was traveling in the same direction. The car did not stop and continued westbound without helping the victim.
San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies found the man lying unresponsive in the westbound lanes. The Sheriff’s Department is asking anyone with information about the incident or the hit-and-run driver to contact 909-364-2000. The investigation into the fatal pedestrian accident is ongoing.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of the deceased victim for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Laws Relating to Pedestrians
According to the California DMV Driver Handbook, people who ride on skateboards are considered pedestrians. The handbook says: “A pedestrian is a person on foot or uses a conveyance such as roller skates, skateboard, etc. other than a bicycle.” Since skateboarders are considered pedestrians in California, it is legal for them to use crosswalks and sidewalks as other pedestrians usually do. Motorists have a duty to yield the right of way to all pedestrians including those using skateboards or mobility devices such as wheelchairs. This is what the law states – whether or not pedestrians are in a crosswalk.
In addition, under California law, motorists have a duty to stop at the scene of an injury or fatal crash. California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a) states that motorists to stop immediately after a crash and remain at the scene until officials arrive. California drivers are also required to help injured victims, which might be something as simple as calling 911 so the victim can receive prompt medical attention.
Liability Issues
In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased victims can file a wrongful death lawsuit seeing compensation. In cases where the driver has not been apprehended or identified, families may be able to seek compensation through the uninsured motorist clause of their own auto insurance policy. A knowledgeable San Bernardino pedestrian accident lawyer will be able to guide victims and their families through what can be a complex legal process.
Source: https://www.pe.com/2022/07/22/sheriff-45-year-old-man-on-skateboard-in-highland-fatally-struck-by-hit-and-run-driver/