As any California resident knows, occupants of motor vehicles, whether drivers or passengers, expose themselves to some level of risk. Unfortunately, motor vehicle accidents are not uncommon, and a person can suddenly become involved in one because of any one of a number of possible errors in judgment, poor choices or even events beyond anyone’s control. However, it is not only the people inside vehicles that are vulnerable; pedestrians, bicyclists and even people standing outside their car can find their lives changed in a moment.
Driver hits man outside vehicle
In a recent example, a man suffered serious injuries after he was hit by a young man suspected of impaired driving. The crash happened on a Saturday afternoon in Fairmount Park. According to the San Diego Police Department, a southbound vehicle driven by a 19-year-old man hit a parked, unoccupied car, then continued driving in the same direction and hit the 56-year-old man, who was getting recyclables out of his trunk, as well as the man’s car. Apparently, that impact led to two more unoccupied cars being hit.
Victim suffers serious leg injuries
The man was transported to a hospital for treatment of serious leg injuries. Police are continuing their investigation and have said they suspect the driver who caused the crash was driving under the influence. They are asking for anyone with information about the incident to call their tip line or Crime Stoppers.
Likely, many people hear about this type of motor vehicle accident and immediately think about how preventable it may have been. Although the victim’s injuries were not considered life-threatening, no doubt, he is suffering physically, emotionally and perhaps even financially due to medical expenses and lost income. The investigation is ongoing, but when it is complete, evidence may very well indicate conclusively that the driver was impaired at the time of the crash. In that case, the victim may consider consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss options for legal recourse through the California civil justice system. A successfully litigated lawsuit could provide him some monetary compensation as well as hold the person responsible accountable.