California Injury Blog
Christian DeOro, 43, is fighting for his life after being severely injured in a hit-and-run crash with a U-Haul van.
According to a KTLA news report, LAPD officials said a stolen U-Haul van going west on Osborne Street ran a red light at Beachy Avenue and slammed into a Toyota Yaris. DeOro, the driver of the Yaris, suffered severe injuries and was transported to an area hospital in critical condition.
Hit-and-Run Investigation
Security video from a home overlooking the intersection showed several people running over to help DeOro soon after the U-Haul van T-boned the Yaris. Emergency responders used the “jaws of life” to free him. His sister said on GoFundMe that DeOro had been on his way to pick up his son from work. Since the crash, DeOro has undergone several surgeries to fix multiple fractures to his knee, ribs, hips, and pelvis. His family is trying to raise money for his medical expenses.
Two people who were in the U-Haul at the time of the crash ran from the area on foot. Police are still trying to find both men who have also been captured on surveillance video. The authorities are offering a $25,000 reward to anyone with information leading to an arrest and conviction in this hit-and-run crash. Anyone with information is urged to contact LAPD traffic detectives at 818-351-6391.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Christian DeOro and his family. We wish DeOro the very best for a quick and full recovery.
Rights of Hit-and-Run Victims
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver of the U-Haul van not only caused this major injury broadside crash but also abandoned the vehicle and left the injured victim exposed to further danger. Under California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a), it is illegal to leave the scene of a major injury or fatal collision. The driver of the U-Haul van also ran a red light at the intersection, officials said.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run crash, there are a number of steps you can take to protect your rights. First, make sure you file a police report. Inform your auto insurance company about the incident. Collect as much information from the scene as possible including eyewitness information.
See if you can get a license plate number for the hit-and-run vehicle or at least a partial license plate number. Secure prompt medical attention, care, and treatment for your injuries. Contact an experienced Los Angeles hit and run lawyer who will stay on top of the official investigation and help ensure that your rights and best interests are protected.
A knowledgeable car accident attorney will also be able to guide you regarding how your own auto insurance policy might work in a case where the hit-and-run driver hasn’t been apprehended or where the driver is uninsured or underinsured.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/2-wanted-hit-and-run-crash-severely-injures-arleta-father/