The number of pedestrian accidents continues to rise. When a vehicle strikes a pedestrian, the victim may be seriously injured or killed. Recently, a Bay Park man was struck by a vehicle while walking across the street. The vehicle did not stop, and the police continue to look for the driver. Witnesses provided a description of the driver to police. He was reportedly driving a gray or silver 2003 Nissan Altima when he pulled out of a mobile home on the 1300 block of Knoxville Street and struck the pedestrian.
Victim Seriously Injured
The victim in this incident was identified as an elderly man. He suffered a life-threatening head injury. His skull was fractured and he may also have suffered other injuries that have not yet been determined.
Pedestrian Hit and Run Accidents are all too Common
Pedestrians should feel safe when they walk on city sidewalks and crosswalks. Sadly, hit and run accidents continue to occur. When any accident occurs, the driver involved is legally required to stop at the scene. The failure to stop may happen for a number of reasons. The driver may be driving illegally, or without a driver’s license, the driver may be driving while impaired, or could have an outstanding warrant. Whatever the reason, the police often locate the driver involved in a hit and run, and that individual will face multiple criminal charges. Additionally, the victim or his family could file a lawsuit against the driver for damages caused by the accident.
Driver Found in a Recent Fatal Hit and Run
In another hit and run case, the driver was located and jailed following a fatal accident. The victim in this case was a 16-year-old who was walking with his friend in Tierrasanta. The driver struck and killed the teen and then fled the scene. The other boy was uninjured because he quickly jumped over the median to get out of the way. The driver was subsequently arrested for felony hit and run.
California PedSafe Program
As many as 19% of all California traffic fatalities occur to pedestrians. This is substantially higher than the national average. The California PedSafe Program is an initiative through the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) in conjunction with the California Office of Traffic Safety, OTS, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, NHTSA. The program is designed to improve safety through education and awareness.
Hit and Run Victims May Seek Justice
The drivers in hit and run accidents are often facing more than criminal charges. If their negligence caused the crash, the driver may be liable for the resulting damages. Damages may include actual costs such as medical treatment and punitive damages such as lost wages. An experienced personal injury attorney will review your case and assist you in getting the compensation you deserve.
Contact the Law Office of Patrick G. Shea to discuss your case in a free consultation.
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