California Injury Blog
Two pedestrians were hospitalized with life-threatening injuries after a hit-and-run crash in Palm Springs the evening of July 27. According to a report in the Desert Sun, a black sedan struck the pedestrians as they walked in a marked crosswalk on Calle Encilia between Andreas and Amado roads. The driver of the vehicle did not stop. But, he was found a short distance away and was stopped and detained by police. The pedestrians, both women, were rushed to an area hospital with major injuries.
Officials said the victims were in the crosswalk in front of the Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs when they were struck. A woman who was in the area said she crossed the same crosswalk moments before the collision and heard the commotion after the women were hit. She said she saw two bodies lying in the street and a slender man with grey hair outside a black sedan parked nearby. Police are still investigating the incident.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the two victims who have been critically injured in this hit-and-run crash. We wish them the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Violation of Laws
Based on this news report, it appears that the women were legally crossing in a marked crosswalk when the driver struck them. California Vehicle Code section 21950 states: “The driver of a vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian crossing the roadway within any marked crosswalk or within any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection.”
The same section also states that the driver of a vehicle approaching a pedestrian within any marked or unmarked crosswalk “shall exercise all due care and shall reduce the speed of a vehicle or take any other action relating to the operating of the vehicle as necessary to safeguard the safety of the pedestrian.”
In addition, the driver also reportedly fled the scene of the crash leaving the two women lying in the roadway, injured, and exposed to further danger. California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a) requires motorists to stop and remain at the scene of an injury or fatal crash.
Justice for Victims
We are relieved to note that the driver has been identified in this case. It is not clear what types of charges he will face. But, in such cases, it would be in victims’ best interests to contact an experienced Riverside car accident lawyer who will remain on their side and make sure that they receive maximum compensation for their losses and that the at-fault parties are held accountable.
Source: https://www.desertsun.com/story/news/traffic/2019/07/27/police-palm-springs-calle-encilia-closed-traffic-investigation/1850589001/