Most California drivers know exactly what they would do in the event of a collision with another vehicle, pedestrian or cyclist and understand their legal and moral obligation to remain at the scene in this situation, whether the crash was an accident or one resulting from negligence or recklessness on their part. Unfortunately, some drivers flee from a crash they have caused, and doing so can make a tragic situation even worse. In a recent example, a driver in Los Angeles struck a pedestrian and continued driving, leaving the man seriously injured. Authorities are still looking for the person responsible.
The hit-and-run incident happened early on a Sunday morning. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the male pedestrian was crossing a street at a downtown Los Angeles intersection when he was struck. He had been walking in a marked crosswalk. The vehicle that hit the man had been running through a red light when it collided with him. The pedestrian suffered severe injuries and was taken to a hospital for treatment.
Reportedly, police video footage shows both the pedestrian crossing the street and the suspect pulling over further down the street, checking the vehicle for damage, then getting back into the vehicle and driving away. Police are not sure if the suspect is male or female. They are asking the public to contact them with any information about the incident.
Although the police news release does not indicate the extent of the injuries, this man may very well suffer long-term effects: physical, emotional and even financial. When the suspect is found, investigators will likely uncover evidence showing negligent and/or reckless behavior led to the crash. In that case, the victim may consider looking into his options for legal recourse within the California civil justice system, including the possibility of a personal injury lawsuit.