California Injury Blog
Officials are still looking for a driver who they say fled the scene of a fatal Orange County motorcycle accident, which killed 55-year-old Drew Ketter of Midway City and seriously injured a woman. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the fatal motorcycle accident occurred the afternoon of August 1, 2016 near Santiago Canyon and Falcon Street in Modjeska Canyon. Police say the motorcycle collided with a Honda Civic.
Fatal Hit-and-Run Crash
The rider and his passenger were transported to a local hospital where Ketter died from his injuries. The car, a Honda Accord, ended up in a ditch on the side of the road. However, the driver hasn’t been found yet. Officials have determined that he fled the scene and that the car was actually stolen from a tow yard in Santa Ana.
Orange County Sheriff’s Department officials have released a surveillance video clip via social media that shows a man circling and getting into the vehicle at the yard. They are hoping that someone recognizes the man and comes forward with information about him. Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 949-425-1860.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased victim. We wish the injured woman the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Leaving the Scene of an Accident
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver of the Honda was involved in the fatal accident, but fled the scene, leaving critically injured people at the scene without care or medical attention. Leaving the scene of a car accident is illegal under California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a). Motorists are required to stop immediately, remain at the scene and most importantly, provide assistance to the injured victims. This could be something as simple as calling 911 so victims receive prompt medical assistance. In many cases, this could make the difference between life and death.
Justice for Victims and Families
In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased victims can file what is known as a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation for damages including medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering and loss of love and companionship. Injured victims can also seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation and pain and suffering. Victims and families would be well advised to contact an experienced Orange County motorcycle accident lawyer who will stay abreast of the official investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.