California Injury Blog
The Los Angeles Police Department has released surveillance video of a van being sought in connection with a hit-and-run crash that left a 15-year-old boy severely injured in Los Feliz. According to a KTLA news report, the teen was struck while crossing southbound on Prospect Avenue at Talmadge Avenue the night of April 28.
Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Collision
Police said the force of the collision caused the pedestrian to be thrown into the air. The van that struck the teenager then fled eastbound on Prospect without stopping to help the victim. Witnesses who rendered aid to the boy said he was thrown more than 20 feet into the air and landed across the street. The boy appeared to be composed and told the good Samaritans to call his father, who came to the scene shortly afterward. The teen was transported to a local hospital for treatment of severe injuries. He is said to be in stable condition.
Authorities have released footage of the suspect vehicle describing it as a white, full-size cargo van with dark, horizontal molding right above the tires. The van’s front end and hood would have some damage from the collision, officials said. Anyone with information is urged to contact LAPD’s Central Traffic Division at 213-833-3713.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured teen and his family. We hope he did not suffer permanent injuries and wish him the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Laws and Liability Issues
Based on this news report, it appears that the van’s driver struck the 15-year-old boy and left him lying in the street, exposed to further danger. It is indeed fortunate that the good Samaritans were able to help the boy until his father got there. Under California law, it is illegal for motorists to leave the scene of a major injury or fatal collision. California Vehicle Code 20001 (a) states that motorists must remain at the scene, exchange pertinent information with other parties involved and most importantly, render aid to the injured victims.
When it comes to hit-and-run collisions, victims and their families suffer a great deal not just emotionally, but also financially because they have no one to hold accountable for their losses. In such cases, victims and their families would be well advised to contact an experienced Los Angeles hit and run lawyer who will stay abreast of the official investigation and help them recover maximum compensation for their losses.
Source: https://ktla.com/news/local-news/lapd-seeks-van-in-los-feliz-hit-and-run-that-severely-injured-teen/