California Injury Blog
A hit and run accident in Lake View Terrace left two horses dead and their riders critically injured on the night of Oct. 25. According to a report in the Los Angeles Daily News, the crash occurred near the intersection of Foothill Boulevard and Wheatland Avenue. The man and woman who were riding were identified by friends as “Polo and his wife, Alejandra.”
Long Road to Recovery
Paramedics who arrived at the scene found the couple in critical condition. Both were taken to a hospital. The horses died at the scene. The driver of the van, 32-year-old Rolando Garcia, fled the scene on foot, but was arrested the following morning. He was booked on felony hit and run charges and held on $50,000 bail. Friends of the couple have established a GoFundMe account to collect money for their treatment.
A friend of the couple told KTLA News that they had suffered numerous broken bones including fractured vertebrae. It was also stated that the recovery process is expected to be lengthy for both. Neighborhood council president Kevin Davis said horseback riding at night is a safety issue that local leaders are trying to fix in this San Fernando Valley community. Davis said they are trying to increase equestrian safety, but that it’s not been enough to prevent tragic accidents such as this one.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured victims in this case. We wish them the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Justice for Victims
Leaving the scene of an injury accident is a felony crime under California law. Motorists are required to stop and remain at the scene of the crash, exchange pertinent information with other parties and most importantly, render aid to the injured victims. We are relieved to note that the suspected hit and run driver was apprehended in this particular case.
Injured victims in such cases can seek compensation from the at-fault party for damages including medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, rehabilitation, permanent injuries, disabilities, emotional distress, pain and suffering. An experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer will be able to advise victims and their families regarding their legal rights and options.
Source: https://www.dailynews.com/2019/10/26/2-horses-killed-riders-critically-injured-by-hit-and-run-driver-in-lake-view-terrace/