California Injury Blog
LAPD officials are circulating video of a hit-and-run crash in South Los Angeles that left a bicyclist in critical condition, and are asking for the public’s help to identify the driver.
According to a report on MyNewsLA.com, the collision occurred the evening of May 10 when the driver of a maroon Kia Optima traveling east on Florence Avenue turned right onto Flower Street and struck a man riding his bicycle in the crosswalk.
Ongoing Crash Investigation
The driver of the Optima did not stop and continued south on Flower, officials said. Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics arrived at the scene and took the man to a hospital where he was listed in critical condition. Anyone with information about this collision is asked to contact LAPD South Traffic Division at 323-421-2500. The investigation is ongoing.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured bicyclist who officials say is in critical condition. We wish him the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Leaving the Scene of a Crash
It is illegal under California law to leave the scene of an injury or fatal crash. 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.”
In addition to stopping at the scene, motorists are required to exchange pertinent information (driver’s license, insurance, contact info, etc.) with the other parties involved. Most importantly, they are required to help provide assistance for the injured victim. This could be as simple as calling 911 so victims get prompt medical attention and care, which could make a difference between life and death.
Justice for Victims
Injured victims of hit-and-run crashes often end up facing not just the physical and emotional struggles, but also significant financial strain because of mounting medical expenses, other costs, and the inability to hold the at-fault person accountable. In such cases, victims and their families would be well advised to contact an experienced Los Angeles hit-and-run lawyer who will stay abreast of the official investigation and help protect their legal rights and best interests.
A knowledgeable car accident lawyer can also advise victims about how the uninsured motorist clause of their auto insurance policy can apply to a hit-and-run collision where the at-fault driver has not been identified or where the driver does not have adequate insurance to cover the losses.
Source: https://mynewsla.com/crime/2021/05/12/hunt-for-hit-and-run-driver-whose-kia-optima-hit-bicycle-rider-in-south-los-angeles-victim-critical-cops-need-your-help/