California Injury Blog
Police have arrested a driver after a hit-and-run crash in South Los Angeles that left a pedestrian dead the morning of Feb. 6. According to a KTLA news report, the crash occurred during the early morning hours on South Hill Street near the West Adams Boulevard intersection. Investigators believe the victim was walking outside of a marked crosswalk when a Toyota Prius traveling south on Hill Street struck him.
Deadly Hit and Run
The victim, a 34-year-old man, was pronounced dead at the scene. The Prius kept going a short distance on Hill before the driver abandoned the vehicle near 30th Street and fled on foot. Video from the scene showed the hood, windshield and roof of the Prius badly damaged due to the crash. Police brought bloodhounds to the scene to locate the driver. The bloodhounds hit on the scent, which led police to the suspect’s home. He was taken into custody without incident, officials said.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of the deceased pedestrian accident victim. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Laws and Liability Issues
Based on this news report, it appears that the car was southbound on Hill and struck the pedestrian who police say, based on initial investigations, was outside of a marked crosswalk. However, California laws are very clear when it comes to leaving the scene of an injury or fatal crash. Under California Vehicle Code 20001 (a), it is illegal to leave the scene of an injury or fatal crash.
Motorists are required to stop immediately at the scene of the crash, remain at the scene until officials arrive and most importantly render aid to the injured victim or victims. The law also requires drivers to stop and remain at the scene even if they don’t believe the accident was their fault. The law states as well that drivers have a responsibility to exercise due care even if a pedestrian is outside a marked crosswalk.
In such cases, family members of deceased victims may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation for damages such as medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering and loss of love, care and companionship. An experienced Los Angeles hit and run lawyer will be able to stay on top of the official investigation and help protect the rights and best interests of victims and their families.
Source: https://ktla.com/2020/02/06/person-of-interest-detained-in-hit-and-run-crash-that-killed-pedestrian-in-south-los-angeles/