According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the fatal pedestrian accident occurred the night of October 29, 2015.
Witnesses told officials the woman was on Westminster Boulevard crossing Magnolia Street outside of a crosswalk when two vehicles appeared to be street racing southbound on Magnolia.
At least one of the cars struck the woman, but both drivers fled the scene. A vehicle found nearby was
believed by officials to have been involved in the incident. Neither of the drivers has been found.
Anyone with information about the crash has been asked to call the Westminster Police Department at 714-898-3315.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members and friends of this deceased pedestrian accident victim. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics
According to California Highway Patrol’s 2013 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were two fatalities and 36 injuries involving pedestrian accidents in the city of Westminster.
In Orange County as a whole, 52 people died and 784 were injured due to pedestrian accidents during the same year.
Violation of Laws
Based on this news report, it appears that this tragedy was the result of street racing.
California Vehicle Code section 23109 (a) states: “A person shall not engage in a motor vehicle speed contest on a highway. As used in this section, a motor vehicle speed contest includes a motor vehicle race against another vehicle, a clock, or other timing device. For purposes of this section, an event in which the time to cover a prescribed route of more than 20 miles is measured, but where the vehicle does not exceed the speed limits, is not a speed contest.”
In addition, the drivers involved fled the scene without even stopping to help the injured victim, which is a violation of California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a).
Liability Issues
In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased victims can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for damages such as medical and funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering and loss of love and companionship. In addition to facing criminal charges, at-fault motorists in such cases can also be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses they cause.
Families would be well advised to contact an experienced Westminster personal injury lawyer who will stay abreast of the official investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.