California Injury Blog
Police are searching for a big rig, which they say, was involved in a fatal hit and run crash in downtown Los Angeles on the morning of May 7. According to a KTLA news report, the crash occurred as the victim was pushing a shopping cart on Seventh Street near South Alameda Street. The person, who was only identified as a 50-year-old man, died at the scene. The big rig, which was pulling a white trailer as it traveled west on 7th Street, did not stop.
Ongoing Investigation
Police said they are still trying to determine if the driver realized that the victim had been struck or if the driver fled the scene intentionally. No further details on the truck or the driver were immediately available. The victim was believed to be a regular in the area and likely homeless. Anyone with information about this crash is asked to contact LAPD detectives at 213-833-3713.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of this deceased victim for their tragic loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Hit and Run Crashes
A recent investigation by NBC4 shows that one hit-and-run crash occurs every 18 minutes in Los Angeles. About 50 percent of all car accidents in Los Angeles County are hit-and-run cases. By comparison, the national average is 11 percent, according to the American Automobile Association. The number of hit-and-run crashes in the region, over the last few years, has risen to epidemic proportions.
Leaving the scene of a crash is illegal under California law. 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.”
Justice for Victims
Coping with a loved one’s sudden loss can be a large enough burden for families of hit and run victims. When you add to that the lack of closure and not holding the at-fault party accountable, the emotional trauma is felt that much more. Families of hit-and-run victims struggle financially as well because they are faced with sudden medical expenses and funeral and burial costs. Victims may be able to seek compensation for their losses in such cases. An experienced Los Angeles hit-and-run accident attorney can help injured hit-and-run victims and families of deceased victims examine their legal rights and options.
Source: https://ktla.com/news/local-news/big-rig-sought-in-deadly-hit-and-run-crash-in-downtown-los-angeles/