A 28-year-old man was seriously injured in a San Francisco car accident when a taxicab struck him and then left the scene of the crash. According to a CBS San Francisco news report, the hit-and-run car accident occurred at Sutter and Polk streets in San Francisco early morning of May 23, 2011. The victim of this pedestrian accident sustained life-threatening injuries. The taxi driver, a man in his 30s, was later arrested for leaving the scene of the serious injury accident.
My thoughts and prayers are with the injured victim of this hit-and-run car accident. I wish him the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
San Francisco Accident Statistics
According to California Highway Patrol’s 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), 16 people were killed and 790 were injured in San Francisco pedestrian accidents. During that same year, there were 35 fatalities and 3,577 injuries reported due to San Francisco car accidents.
Violation of Laws
Based on this news report, it appears that the victim was crossing at the intersection with a green light. Under California Vehicle Code Section 21950, drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing in marked or unmarked crosswalks. In addition, the taxi driver in this case fled the scene of the crash leaving the critically injured pedestrian lying on the roadway. This is an appalling and inexcusable act. It shows a callous and absolute disregard for a human life.
Leaving the scene of an injury car accident is also a felony. 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.” I’m relieved to note here that the driver was quickly apprehended.
Liability Issues
Injured victims and their families in such cases would be well-advised to seek the counsel of an experienced San Francisco personal injury lawyer, who will stay abreast of the official investigation and make sure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. Victims can seek compensation for all medical expenses, loss of earnings, hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation and other related damages. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to car accident victims and their families.
Seriously injured in a San Francisco hit-and-run car accident? Want to know if you have a case? Want to know what your case is worth? Want compensation for your injuries? Want justice? Want to make sure the same thing doesn’t happen to someone else?
Call your best friends in the legal industry after a San Francisco pedestrian accident. Call 800-259-6373. The call is free. The advice may be priceless.
Call a Bisnar Chase Personal Injury Attorneys San Francisco personal injury lawyer for a free professional evaluation of your case by attorneys who have represented over 6,000 clients since 1978. You will experience award winning representation and outstanding personal service by a friendly law firm in a comfortable environment.