California Injury Blog
A 42-year-old man was fatally injured in a pedestrian accident in San Bernardino, which officials say, involved a suspected DUI driver. According to a KTLA news report, the fatal crash occurred at the intersection of 2nd and G streets the night of Dec. 27. Police say 30-year-old Ronald Harris was speeding in a Saturn Aura while the pedestrian was crossing the intersection in a marked crosswalk.
DUI and Hit-and-Run
Officials said Harris did not slow or stop for the pedestrian and struck him in the crosswalk. The victim died at the scene. Harris did not stop after striking the pedestrian. However, officers later found him. Police say Harris was under the influence of marijuana and alcohol at the time. He was arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and hit-and-run causing injury or death. The investigation into this case is ongoing.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of this deceased pedestrian accident victim. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Violation of Laws
Based on this news report, officials say Harris was not only speeding and driving while under the influence of alcohol and drugs, but also struck a pedestrian who was walking in a marked crosswalk and then left the scene of a fatal crash.
Under California Vehicle Code Section 21950 (a), motorists are required to yield the right of way to pedestrians walking in a marked or unmarked crosswalk. It is also illegal under California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a) to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. It is also a felony crime under California law to leave the scene of an injury or fatal crash.
Justice for Victims’ Families
In such cases where negligence and wrongdoing were factors, families of deceased victims may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation for damages including medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering (endured by the decedent), and loss of love, care and companionship. Families would be well advised to contact an experienced San Bernardino DUI victims’ lawyer who will stay on top of the official investigation and make sure that they receive justice and compensation for their tremendous losses.
Source: https://ktla.com/news/local-news/man-arrested-in-dui-crash-that-killed-pedestrian-in-san-bernardino/