California Injury Blog
An 82-year-old man who was riding a mobility scooter was severely injured in a hit-and-run crash in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles. According to a KTLA news report, the victim was riding his scooter on Mott Street in a marked crosswalk when a car hit him on the morning of December 4. The vehicle, which investigators say was a silver or gray Mazda CX-7, had turned left on to east Whittier Boulevard from south Mott Street when it struck the man. The impact knocked him off the scooter onto the roadway. The driver of the Mazda kept going east, dragging the travel scooter behind him.
Ongoing Investigation
The Mazda then stopped on Orme Avenue when someone approached and helped dislodge the scooter from under the car, unaware of the collision, officials said. Surveillance footage released the following day shows the driver then left the area having not rendered aid to the injured man.
Paramedics responded and transported him to an area hospital where he has been listed in critical but stable condition. He is expected to survive. Officials are offering a reward of up to $25,000 to anyone who can provide information leading to the hit-and-run driver’s identification, arrest, and conviction. Those with information may also call LAPD at (213) 486-3713.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the elderly man who has been severely injured in this hit-and-run collision. We wish him the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Laws and Liability Issues
Under California law, a person who is riding a mobility scooter is considered a “pedestrian.” The motorist was also required under California Vehicle Code 21950 (a) to yield the right of way to the pedestrian who was crossing the street in a marked crosswalk. Also, California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a) requires motorists to stop and remain at the scene of an injury or fatal crash, exchange pertinent information with all parties involved, and most importantly, render aid to injured victims.
In such cases, hit-and-run victims are often left facing not just the physical and emotional trauma that comes with such an experience, but also the financial strain that comes with mounting medical expenses, lost income, and other associated costs. In such cases, injured victims would be well advised to contact an experienced Los Angeles hit and run lawyer who will remain on top of the official investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. A knowledgeable lawyer will also be able to advise them about how their own auto insurance policy might apply to a hit-and-run crash or to a case where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.
Source: https://ktla.com/news/local-news/82-year-old-man-seated-in-travel-scooter-is-severely-injured-in-boyle-heights-hit-and-run-collision/