A pedestrian was critically injured in a crosswalk in the Vermont Square area of South Los Angeles in a car accident involving a suspected hit and run driver. According to a KTLA news report, the crash was reported the morning of Oct. 2 at the intersection of West Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and South Budlong Avenue. The driver attempted to flee the scene after hitting the pedestrian and critically injuring the pedestrian.
However, officials were able to locate the driver who was then taken into custody. Aerial video showed a car with a broken windshield stopped in an area marked off by crime scene tape. The 50-year-old pedestrian was transported to a local hospital in critical condition. The driver was reportedly trying to make a left turn at a busy intersection when the accident occurred. The cause of the crash is still under investigation.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the pedestrian who has been seriously injured in this accident. We wish the injured victim the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
What Do the Laws Say?
Based on this news report, the pedestrian was walking in a marked crosswalk at an intersection, meaning that he or she had the right of way at the time. Under California Vehicle Code section 21950, motorists are required to stop and yield the right of way to pedestrians who are walking in a marked or unmarked crosswalk. They are supposed to slow down, come to a full stop and only proceed after the pedestrians have safely crossed the roadway.
In addition to failing to yield to the pedestrian, the driver also appears to have fled the scene of an injury crash, which is illegal under California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a). Leaving the scene of an injury or fatal crash is a felony crime under California law. We are relieved to note that officials were able to apprehend the suspected hit and run driver.
Justice for Victims
Injured victims in such cases may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver and other potential parties seeking compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress. An experienced Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyer who has successfully handled hit and run cases on behalf of victims will be able to protect their legal rights and options, and help them secure maximum compensation for their losses.
Source: https://ktla.com/2019/10/02/suspected-hit-and-run-driver-in-custody-after-pedestrian-struck-in-vermont-square-area-crosswalk/