California Injury Blog
A woman and her unborn child were fatally struck by a suspected drunk driver who was being chased by Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department deputies in Lancaster. According to a KTLA news report, the DUI suspect fled after the deadly collision, which happened shortly after deputies began chasing the individual’s Dodge Ram 1500 pickup. The crash occurred on the night of Sept. 7. Video footage captured by a freelance photographer shows both cars ended up on the sidewalk, with the pickup on its side near a traffic light, and the victim’s vehicle mangled and overturned near a fire hydrant.
Tragic Deaths
The driver was driving recklessly in the area of Avenue K and 12th Street West when officials say the chase began. The truck headed north after turning left at Avenue J-8. At the intersection of Avenue J-8 and 10th Street West, the Ram pickup blew through a red light and collided with a Dodge Avenger sedan.
The pregnant victim was transported to a local hospital where she and her unborn child died from their injuries. The pickup’s driver fled on foot. Deputies did not provide any further information about the suspect. The investigation is still ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Lancaster sheriff’s station at 661-948-8466.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of the woman and the unborn child who lost their lives in this senseless crash. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Laws and Liability Issues
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver of the pickup truck may have been under the influence when he or she evaded the police, blew through a red light, and struck the victim’s vehicle. Then, the driver, fled on foot, leaving the scene of a deadly collision that took two lives. All these alleged actions are against California law. It is illegal to operate a vehicle under the influence. It is against the law to run a red light and it is illegal to leave the scene of an injury or fatal crash.
Any time an innocent bystander is injured in such a crash, it is also important to look into whether the police officers took the appropriate action by pursuing a suspect. Was it fair for police to engage in a pursuit when public safety is at serious risk? The at-fault driver can also be held financially responsible for the losses. Families of deceased victims in such cases would be well advised to contact an experienced Los Angeles car accident lawyer who will stay abreast of the official investigation and make sure their legal rights and best interests are protected.
Source: https://ktla.com/news/local-news/woman-unborn-child-killed-in-hit-and-run-pursuit-crash-with-dui-suspect-in-lancaster-officials/