A 14-year-old boy riding a skateboard was injured in a hit-and-run crash in Ventura the night of March 16. According to a KTLA news report, the 911 call about a hit-and-run came in around 10:16 p.m. in he 10900 block of Darling Road. The teen victim had sustained what were said to be “moderate” injuries, which weren’t believed to be life threatening. He was treated by paramedics and transported to a local hospital for further treatment. He was said to be in stable condition.
Ongoing Investigation
Police said the young victim, who was not wearing a helmet, was riding his skateboard west in the roadway on Darling when he was hit by the suspect vehicle as it traveled east along the same road. The vehicle did not stop and the driver did not try rendering aid to the victim, officials said.
No description of the vehicle or the driver has been released as police continue to investigate. A news release states that police did find some physical evidence at the scene, which could help with the investigation. Anyone with information can reach police at 805-339-4451.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the teen pedestrian accident victim. We wish him the very best for a quick and full recovery.
Laws and Compensation Issues
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver not only struck and injured the skateboarder, but left the scene of the injury crash, which is illegal under California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a). Under this law, motorists are required to stop immediately at the scene of the crash and remain there until the authorities arrive. Most importantly, motorists are required to render aid to the injured victim. This might be something as simple as calling 911 and getting the victim prompt medical attention, which could make the difference between life and death in some cases.
Hit-and-run victims are often faced with medical and other expenses while having no one to hold accountable. The hit-and-run driver can face criminal charges and can be held financially responsible for the victim’s injuries and losses, if he or she is apprehended. However, if the driver is not identified or found, victims may be able to seek compensation through the uninsured motorist clause of their auto insurance policies.
In some cases, if a dangerous roadway caused or contributed to the incident, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway may also be held liable. An experienced Ventura hit and run accident lawyer may be able to help injured victims and their families better understand their legal rights and options.
Source: https://ktla.com/2019/03/17/driver-sought-after-14-year-old-skateboarder-struck-injured-in-ventura-hit-and-run/