California Injury Blog
An elderly woman was critically injured in a Santa Ana pedestrian accident, which officials said, involved a hit-and-run driver. According to a KTLA news report, the crash occurred in the 2500 block of North Fairview Avenue. Police from Santa Ana and Garden Grove responded to several calls and found the pedestrian down on the roadway. She was transported to a hospital with major internal injuries. The driver left the scene.
Driver Arrested
A preliminary investigation determined that the woman was walking with a male companion when a vehicle that was northbound struck her. The following day, a woman surrendered at the Santa Ana Police Department accompanied by her attorney. Karina Garcia, 25, admitted to hitting the pedestrian at the intersection while driving her silver Honda Civic.
She also told police where she had left her vehicle. Police found it and determined that it had damage consistent with striking a pedestrian. Garcia was booked on suspicion of hit-and-run causing injury and driving with a suspended license for a DUI. The crash remains under investigation.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the seriously injured victim. We wish her the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Laws and Liability Issues
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver, Garcia, struck the pedestrian at an intersection and left the scene. This is a violation of California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a). Under this law, motorists are required to stop immediately at the scene of an accident, remain at the scene and cooperate with the authorities. They are also required to exchange pertinent information with other parties involved in the collision and help the injured victim obtain medical attention.
In this case, the driver, in addition to facing criminal penalties, can also be held financially responsible for the victim’s injuries. The pedestrian can seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress. An experienced Santa Ana car accident lawyer can also help determine whether a dangerous condition on the roadway caused or contributed to the incident. If that was the case, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway can also be held liable.
Source: https://ktla.com/2019/10/08/woman-turns-herself-in-to-police-after-allegedly-striking-pedestrian-in-santa-ana-hit-and-run/