A woman was critically injured in an El Monte pedestrian accident, which officials say was caused by a hit-and-run driver who may have been intoxicated at the time. According to a KTLA news report, the major injury collision occurred the afternoon of June 2 in the 4300 block of Cypress Avenue.
Responding police officers found a woman who had suffered serious injuries after being struck. She was hospitalized and later listed in critical but stable condition.
Ongoing Investigation
Bystanders were able to describe the suspect vehicle to police and investigators were able to develop further leads after reviewing home surveillance cameras in the area. It led them to the driver’s home, police said. The suspect was believed to be under the influence of alcohol, but that investigation is still ongoing. Police say they now have to determine if the driver was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. Charges are pending.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured pedestrian who has apparently suffered major injuries. We are relieved to note that she is in stable condition. We wish her the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Laws and Liability Issues
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver of the vehicle not only left the scene of an injury crash but may have also been under the influence at the time. According to California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a), it is illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. It is also against the law to leave the scene of a crash where someone has been injured or killed.
California law requires motorists to stop immediately, remain at the scene of the crash, exchange pertinent information with other parties, and most importantly, help the injured victim get medical attention. This could be something as simple as calling 911 so the injured person can get help right away.
In such cases, injured victims may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver seeking compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, permanent injuries, disabilities, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Injured victims would also be well advised to contact an experienced Los Angeles hit and run lawyer who will stay abreast of the official investigation and help protect their rights.
Source: https://ktla.com/news/local-news/driver-arrested-in-el-monte-hit-and-run-that-critically-injured-pedestrian-may-have-been-intoxicated-police/