California Injury Blog
Rodrigo “Rod” Armas, 45, died in a Los Angeles car accident. Armas and his son were on their way back to Malibu during the annual 200-mile Los Angeles Wheelmen “Grand Tour” event.
My heart goes out to the family and friends of Rod Armas and his young son who is in the hospital with serious injuries. I offer my deepest condolences to Armas’ surviving family members, his wife Shelly Armas, his son and two daughters. Please keep this family in your prayers as they go through this difficult time.
According to California Highway Patrol’s 2007 traffic accident statistics, there were no bicycle accident fatalities, but 19 injuries reported in Malibu as a result of bicycle accidents. In Los Angeles County, in 2007, 27 deaths and 2,902 injuries involving bicycle accidents were reported.
It’s hard to understand how a driver can strike a man and a young boy and leave them to die on the street. Obviously in this case, Sanchez took off because he knew he was intoxicated and would get in trouble if apprehended. Well, he is in serious trouble now. He is certain to face felony driving under the influence and vehicular manslaughter charges in connection with this fatal bicycle accident – as he should. Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious violation of California law.
California Vehicle Code section 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.”
Rod Armas’ family would be well advised to retain the services of experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyers who will analyze all aspects of this case and hold the negligent parties accountable. In this case, I would also look into whether Sanchez was on-the-job for the city of Malibu or returning from a city event. If that was the case, the city could also be held liable for this accident and resulting death and injuries. In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased victims may be able to file wrongful death claims to secure compensation to cover medical or funeral expenses, loss of earnings, loss of companionship and other related damages.