California Injury Blog
A 64-year-old man was killed in a Pasadena hit-and-run crash on Nov. 13. According to a CBS Los Angeles news report, officials have arrested 20-year-old Alberto Fernandez of Victorville in connection with the crash. The fatal collision occurred near the intersection of Orange Grove Boulevard and Marengo Avenue. The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. Fernandez was detained several hours after the crash in Monrovia by the California Highway Patrol. Officials have not said what led them to initially detain Fernandez.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of the deceased pedestrian for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
What Does the Law Say?
Leaving the scene of an injury or fatal crash is illegal in California. California Vehicle Code 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.” The law also states that motorists should exchange pertinent information with others at the scene and most importantly, provide assistance to injured victims.
Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Crash
If you have been involved in a hit and run crash, the first thing to do is to remain at the scene of the crash. If the person who hit your vehicle left the scene, do not attempt to follow them. Wait for the authorities to arrive and file a police report. If you or someone else has been injured, call 911 to get medical attention right away.
Do not wait to call the police or your insurance company. The official accident report will help the police look for the hit and run driver. It will also be useful when you file your accident claim. Get as much information as possible about the driver and also the car such as the vehicle license plate number (even if it’s partial), the other vehicle’s make, model and color, description of the damage to the other vehicle. It would also be a good idea to talk to witnesses to get information about where the hit and run vehicle was last seen or headed. You should certainly take photos of damages to your vehicle and your injuries.
Seeking Compensation
In such cases, injured victims and families of deceased victims need an experienced lawyer in their corner, someone who will fight for their rights every step of the way. Dealing with insurance companies in hit-and-run cases can be extremely tricky. A knowledgeable car accident attorney will analyze all aspects of the case and help you secure maximum compensation for your injuries, damages and losses.
Source: https://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2020/11/14/hit-and-run-driver-kills-pedestrian-in-pasadena/