A 3-year-old boy died and his father was injured after they were both struck by an SUV, which officials say, may have run a stop sign in Arleta. According to a KTLA news report, the incident occurred the afternoon of Jan. 26. A woman was driving a late-model Ford Expedition down Chase Street with two young boys in the vehicle when she attempted to make a right turn on Varna Avenue.
Tragic Collision
The toddler and his father were crossing eastbound on the north side of the intersection in a crosswalk. Officials say the driver then apparently failed to completely stop at the stop sign and struck the father and son who were crossing the street. Both fell to the ground and went partially underneath the SUV. Paramedics transported the gravely injured toddler to a local trauma center where he was pronounced dead.
His father suffered serious injuries and was transported to the hospital, but has been released. After the crash, the driver stopped at the scene to render aid to the victims. The crash occurred in a residential area across the street from an elementary school. The driver has not yet been charged. The investigation is still ongoing.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family members of the little boy who was killed in this horrific crash. Our thoughts and prayers are also with the dad who witnessed the crash and was injured as well.
Failing to Stop at a Stop Sign
California law requires drivers to come to a complete stop at a stop sign and proceed with caution. According to California Vehicle Code section 21802 (a): “The driver of any vehicle approaching a stop sign at the entrance to, or within, an intersection shall stop as required by Section 22450. The driver shall then yield the right-of-way to any vehicles which have approached from another highway, or which are approaching so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard, and shall continue to yield the right-of-way to those vehicles until he or she can proceed with reasonable safety.”
In such cases, depending on the nature and circumstances of the incident, drivers may face criminal charges. Even if they are not charged, they may be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses caused. Injured victims may seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation and pain and suffering.
Family members of deceased victims may also be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation. An experienced Los Angeles car accident lawyer will be able to determine whether a dangerous roadway condition caused or contributed to the accident. If that was the case, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway can also be held liable.
Source: http://ktla.com/2018/01/26/toddler-dies-father-injured-after-being-hit-by-vehicle-in-arleta/