A hit-and-run collision in North Hollywood seriously injured a pedestrian who was apparently crossing the street. According to a CBS News report, the injury collision happened at the intersection of Laurel Canyon and Chandler boulevards, when the driver of a blue SUV cut off a Toyota Camry. That caused the Camry to swerve and strike a pedestrian. The SUV, however, did not stop and fled the scene of the collision. The pedestrian suffered a broken arm and leg. Police are describing the suspect as a male. If you witnessed this hit-and-run collision, please call LAPD at 818-644-8000.
I hope the pedestrian here did not sustain any catastrophic or life-threatening injuries. I wish this injured victim the best for a quick and full recovery.
Hit-and-Run Statistics
According to the California Highway Patrol’s statistics, there were 17,158 hit-and-run collisions resulting in deaths or injuries statewide in 2008. That’s down from 21,137 such collisions in 2004. A majority of these car accidents resulted in injuries. There were 247 hit-and-run deaths in 2008 in California.
Laws and Liability Issues
California Vehicle Code section 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 case, what happened was a “non-contact hit-and-run.” This means that the hit-and-run vehicle did not actually strike or make contact with the pedestrian. But the vehicle caused the collision, which in turn resulted in serious injuries to the pedestrian. Under such circumstances, the driver of the SUV was required by law to remain at the scene of the crash.
The driver of the SUV, if apprehended, could be held liable for the pedestrian’s serious injuries. Injured victims of such cases would be well-advised to contact an experienced California personal injury lawyer who will advise them about their options. In such cases, the uninsured motorist coverage, if it is part of the victim’s auto insurance policy, could help cover the damages.
Would you be more comfortable with reporting a hit-and-run driver if you can be anonymous?
The Bisnar Chase Personal Injury Attorneys is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.