California Injury Blog
Robert Ramage, 24, was killed in a hit-and-run crash in Northridge not far from his home the morning of January 15, 2014. According to a KABC news report, the fatal collision occurred at the intersection of Balboa Boulevard and Parthenia Street. Officials say a tan 2001 Ford Ranger pickup truck was traveling west on Parthenia when it slammed into a 1993 Ford Escort that was traveling south on Balboa. The truck continued on Balboa crashing into a parked vehicle.
Severe Crash Impact
Ramage, the driver of the Escort, on impact, went flying out of the car even though he was wearing his seatbelt, officials said. Ramage was dressed in medical scrubs when he was rushed to an area hospital and pronounced dead. Officials said he was a veterinary student who was coming home from work at the time of the crash.
The driver of the pickup fled on foot. He has been described as a balding white man about 25 to 30 years old, standing 6 feet to 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighing approximately 230 to 280 pounds. Two male passengers in the truck also fled the scene. Investigators say one of the drivers ran the red light and that speed was not a factor. Anyone with information is asked to contact LAPD at 818-644-8021.
Leaving the Scene of a Crash
We are seeing more and more evidence that Los Angeles is the hit-and-run capital of the nation. Leaving the scene of a crash is not only unethical, but it is also illegal. Under California Vehicle Code 20001 (a), drivers are required to stop immediately, remain at the scene of the crash, exchange pertinent information with other parties involved and render aid to the injured victim or victims. In this case, the driver of the truck and his passengers reportedly abandoned their vehicle and ran away from the scene leaving the critically injured victim on the roadway. Appalling!
Liability Issues
In this case, officials say the victim was wearing his seatbelt, but was still ejected from the vehicle. An experienced Los Angeles auto defect lawyer will be able to examine whether the seatbelt in the Ford Escort was defective and caused the occupant ejection. Families of deceased crash victims would be well advised to contact an experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney who will help them understand their legal rights and options.