California Injury Blog
A 65-year-old man was severely injured but survived after police say he was struck by a motorcyclist and another vehicle in the Highland Park area of Los Angeles. According to a KTLA news report, both the motorcyclist and the driver fled the scene and police are offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to arrests. The crashes occurred the night of Aug. 3 when the victim was walking in an unmarked crosswalk at York Boulevard and Munson Avenue.
Ongoing Investigation
Before the victim reached the curb, the motorcyclist, who was traveling west on York, crashed into the victim, knocking him to the ground. The motorcyclist kept going and did not stop to render aid. People in the area came to the victim’s aid and called for an ambulance, but he was not moved out of the street. That’s when a second vehicle came through the area and struck the victim while he was still lying in the street. That driver also did not stop and continued west on York.
Witnesses got into their vehicle and tried to stop the second driver, but were not successful. The victim was eventually taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening, but severe injuries. He has been listed in stable condition. LAPD detectives have secured a video of the motorcycle possibly involved in the first crash. It is described as a green motorcycle. The motorcyclist was wearing a green helmet, officials said. No information is available for the second driver. Anyone with more information is asked to call LAPD detectives at 213-833-3713 or the central traffic division at 213-486-3713.
We offer our thoughts and prayers to the seriously injured victim. We wish him the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Laws and Liability Issues
California’s laws very clearly state that drivers should stop right away at the scene of a crash and remain at the scene until authorities arrive. They are also required to exchange information with other parties involved and most importantly, render aid to the injured victim. Drivers can be arrested and charged if they leave the scene in a serious injury accident with a felony hit and run. In this case, the man was walking in an unmarked crosswalk and therefore, had the right of way under California Vehicle Code 21950 (a) as well.
In such cases, the at-fault drivers when found can be held criminally and civilly liable. Injured victims in such cases can seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, rehabilitation, permanent injuries, disabilities, pain and suffering and emotional distress. An experienced Los Angeles car accident lawyer will also be able to advise victims about how their auto insurance policy might apply in cases where the hit and run driver is never found, or in a case where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.
Source: https://ktla.com/news/local-news/65-year-old-man-survives-after-being-struck-by-motorcycle-vehicle-in-highland-park-area-hit-and-run/