California Injury Blog
A man suspected of driving under the influence was arrested in connection with a hit-and-run crash in Seal Beach that seriously injured a motorcyclist. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the fatal incident occurred early morning on September 5, 2013 at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Anderson Street. Police say motorcyclist was struck by a pickup truck. The driver of the pickup, later identified as 31-year-old Nathan Teixeira fled on foot even as the motorcyclist was down in the intersection.
Paramedics treated the motorcyclist before being taken to a hospital in serious condition. Officers were tipped to the pickup driver’s location after a resident overheard him talking on his cell phone and saying that he had been in a serious accident. Teixeira was booked on suspicion of hit-and-run and driving under the influence causing injury. Police say the motorcyclist was going north on Pacific Coast Highway and the pickup was going south. Police say Teixeira failed to yield to the motorcycle while he was attempting to enter a private driveway.
My thoughts and prayers are with the injured motorcyclist. I wish this victim the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Motorcycle Crash Statistics
One person was injured and 21 were injured due to motorcycle accidents in Seal Beach, according to California Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). In Orange County as a whole, 19 fatalities and 750 injuries were reported due to motorcycle collisions during the same year.
Violation of Laws
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver who was arrested was not only under the influence and failed to yield the right-of-way to the motorcyclist, but also fled the scene of the crash. According to California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a): “It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle.” Leaving the scene of an injury car accident is illegal under California Vehicle Code 20001 (a).
Holding Wrongdoers Accountable
I’m relieved to note that the driver in this case was apprehended thanks to a tip from a responsible citizen. Victims who have been injured due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing have rights. Injured victims in such cases can seek compensation from the at-fault party for damages including medical expenses, lost wages, cost of hospitalization, physical therapy, disabilities, permanent injuries, pain and suffering and emotional distress. Injured victims would also be well advised to contact an experienced hit-and-run injury lawyer who will analyze all aspects of the incident and ensure that the negligent parties are held liable.