California Injury Blog
A man in his 50s was struck and killed in a hit-and-run accident in Stanton the night of February 25, 2016. According to a report in The Orange County Register, the fatal accident occurred at the intersection of Cerritos Avenue and Sherrill Street. The vehicle did not stop, but was later found abandoned nearby with a damaged hood and windshield. Witnesses told police they saw a woman leaving the vehicle, but officials did not have a description. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Orange County Sheriff’s Department at 714-647-7000.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family members of this hit-and-run victim. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Leaving the Scene of a Crash
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver of the vehicle not only struck and fatally injured the pedestrian, but also fled the scene of the crash. Leaving the scene of a fatal or injury collision is not only inhumane and irresponsible, but also illegal.
Under California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a), it is illegal to leave the scene of an injury or fatal crash, regardless of whose fault the accident may have been. In addition to stopping and remaining at the scene of the crash, drivers must also exchange pertinent information with other parties involved and most importantly, render aid to injured victims at the scene. In this particular case, the driver did none of the above and simply drove away.
Holding Wrongdoers Accountable
If you have any information about the driver in this case, please visit our dedicated Hit-and-Run Reward Program website at hitandrunreward.com to offer an anonymous tip and to become eligible for a $1,000 reward. This is a part of our effort to partner with law enforcement and the community to help apprehend hit-and-run drivers and bring them to justice.
If you have lost a loved one in a hit-and-run crash, it is important that you contact an experienced Orange County personal injury lawyer who will stay abreast of the official investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. A knowledgeable car accident attorney will also be able to advise victims’ families about how the uninsured motorist clause in their auto insurance policy might apply to a hit-and-run crash where the driver has not yet been apprehended.