California Injury Blog
Jose Manuel Garcia, 37, was killed in a pedestrian accident in Moreno Valley, which officials said, was caused by a hit and run driver. According to a City News Service report, the man was struck a little before midnight on Feb. 13 near the intersection of Fir Avenue and Perris Boulevard. Garcia was pronounced dead at the scene.
Fatal Hit and Run
Riverside County Sheriff’s officials said Garcia was struck while crossing Perris Boulevard, south of the intersection, by an older, white two-door Pontiac Grand Am traveling at a high speed northbound on Perris Boulevard. After the crash, the Pontiac slowed down and pulled to the side of the road momentarily, along with a purple Scion XB, and then both vehicles drove off eastbound on Fir Avenue. The investigation is ongoing.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of Jose Manuel Garcia for their tragic loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Leaving the Scene of an Accident
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver of the Pontiac was not only speeding, but also struck and fatally injured the pedestrian. The driver then left the scene of the crash choosing not to wait for authorities or render aid to the victim. California Vehicle Code 20001 (a) states: “The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident.”
California Vehicle Code Section 22350 (Basic Speed Law) states: “No person shall drive a vehicle upon a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable or prudent having due regard for weather, visibility, the traffic and on surface and width of, the highway, and in no event at a speed which endangers the safety of persons or property.”
Families of deceased hit-and-run victims do have legal rights. If the driver is apprehended, they may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit against him or her. If the driver is not identified, they may still be able to seek compensation through the uninsured motorist clause of their own auto insurance policy. An experienced Riverside hit and run lawyer will be able to help them better understand their options.
Source: https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/pedestrian-killed-in-hit-and-run-crash-in-moreno-valley/2526915/