California Injury Blog
A man was struck and killed by a driver who then fled the scene in West Athens in Los Angeles County, NBC Los Angeles reported.
According to the report, the crash occurred early morning on May 24. The fatal pedestrian accident occurred at the intersection of Vermont Avenue and 120th Street. A wheelchair was on the sidewalk near the victim. Officials said it is possible that the victim was in a wheelchair when he was struck.
Fatal Crash in LA County
The intersection where the crash occurred has a marked crosswalk. However, it is not known if the victim was in the process of crossing the street when he was hit. The victim has not yet been identified. Authorities also have not released a description of the vehicle involved in the crash. The investigation is ongoing.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members and friends of this deceased victim. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of this deceased victim for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Laws and Liability Issues
California law considers wheelchair users to be pedestrians. Under California Vehicle Code Section 467 (b), the term “pedestrian” includes any person “who is operating a self-propelled wheelchair, motorized tricycle, or motorized quadricycle and, by reason of physical disability, is otherwise unable to move about as a pedestrian.” That means motorists are required to yield the right-of-way to individuals who are in wheelchairs or mobility scooters. Moreover, California Vehicle Code Section 21950 (a) requires motorists to stop and yield to pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks.
In cases where a driver’s negligence may have caused a pedestrian’s death, families of deceased victims may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation for damages such as medical expenses, funeral and burial costs, lost future income, pain and suffering and loss of love, care, and companionship.
A knowledgeable Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyer will also be able to advise families whether a dangerous roadway caused the accident. If that’s the case, they may also have a claim against the governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway. Such claims must be filed within 180 days of the incident.
Source: https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/hit-and-run-crash-west-athens/2900896/