California Injury Blog
Officials are searching for a hit-and-run driver who they say struck and killed a motorcyclist in Reseda on August 24, 2016. According to an NBC Los Angeles news report, the fatal collision occurred at the intersection of Vanowen Street and Tampa Avenue. Police say the driver of a truck was making a left turn onto Vanowen and failed to yield to the oncoming motorcyclist.
The truck driver left after the crash heading west on Vanowen. The motorcyclist, a man in his late teens or early 20s, was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities are looking for the driver of a white stake bed truck with significant damage on the passenger side of the vehicle. The city is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the hit-and-run driver. Anyone with information is asked to call LAPD at 818-644-8000.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family members and friends of this young motorcyclist for their tragic loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Violations of the Law
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver of the truck not only made an illegal left turn, failing to yield the right of way to the oncoming motorcyclist, but also left the scene of a fatal crash. Motorcycle accidents involving left turns are extremely common and often result in devastating injuries for the motorcyclist. It is a violation of California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a) to leave the scene of a crash without exchanging information or without rendering aid to the injured victim. Such aid could be something as minor as calling 911. Prompt medical attention can make the difference between life and death in these types of situations.
Motorcycle Accident Wrongful Death
In cases where negligence is involved, families of deceased victims can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for damages such as medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering and loss of love and companionship. In such cases, it is critical to obtain a copy of the police report, gather as much evidence as possible from the accident scene including eyewitness contacts and statements and seek the counsel of an experienced Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyer who has successfully handled wrongful death cases. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.