California Injury Blog
A woman suffered major injuries in a hit-and-run crash after being struck by a vehicle and dragged along by the driver.
According to a KTLA news report, the driver allegedly said, “I sure am” after being asked by the victim if he was going to leave the scene of the crash. The collision occurred early on the morning of Feb. 28 as the victim, 61-year-old Sandra Martin, was crossing the 100 block of East Fourth Street. A four-door passenger vehicle traveling in reverse struck Martin, who was then knocked to the ground.
Major Injuries and Lost Dog
The driver reportedly stopped the vehicle, stepped out, and pulled her out from under the vehicle before walking back to his vehicle. That’s when Martin asked him if he was going to leave, and he replied in the affirmative. The driver then took off without helping Martin, police said. The driver is described as male, about 25 to 30 years old, with a thin build.
Martin was taken to the hospital with severe injuries that required surgery. She is asking for the public’s help in finding her brown, long-haired Chihuahua terrier named Little Man, who she was carrying when the crash occurred. Police have released surveillance video of the crash and a picture of the dog. LAPD has also released a video of Martin in a hospital bed pleading with the driver to turn himself in. Anyone with information about the hit-and-run driver or the dog is asked to contact LAPD at 213-833-3713 or 31480@lapd.online.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Sandra Martin. We wish her the very best for a speedy and complete recovery and hope her canine companion, Little Man, is found safe and well.
Laws and Liability Issues
Based on Martin’s account, the driver who struck and severely injured her not only stopped at the scene but dislodged her from his vehicle and then told her he was going to get out of there. There is no question that this is an inhumane act. But in addition, it is against the law and a felony crime to leave the scene of an injury crash, regardless of whose fault the accident was. California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a) states that motorists must stop immediately, remain at the scene, exchange information with others, and assist injured victims.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run crash, it is important that you file a police report, get prompt medical attention, gather as much evidence as possible from the scene and reach out to an experienced Los Angeles hit and run lawyer who will stay abreast of the official investigation and make sure your legal rights and best interests are protected.
Source: https://ktla.com/news/local-news/woman-severely-injured-dog-missing-after-hit-and-run-crash-in-dtla-driver-tells-victim-he-is-leaving-scene/