Police Seek Driver in Hit-and-Run Accident

California Highway Patrol is investigating a hit-and-run accident that killed a pedestrian on Monday, August 11.

Around 12:15 a.m., witnesses report that a man was running alongside the highway near East Plaza Boulevard. He was crossing from the median to the side of the northbound lane when an unidentified vehicle struck him, and then fled the scene.

The man’s body was also struck by a Toyota 4Runner and thrown into the HOV lane. Police pronounced him dead at the scene. The Toyota driver stayed and cooperated with authorities, but the driver of the first car has not been identified.

Reckless motorists often flee the scene to avoid being arrested for alcohol or drug use. If police cannot prove a hit-and-run driver was impaired, he or she may only face minor traffic charges.

What Is a Vulnerable User?

Many states consider pedestrians and cyclists to be “vulnerable users,” meaning that drivers should exercise more caution around them. In a crash, vulnerable users sustain more severe injuries and have a higher fatality rate than drivers or motorcyclists.

For a severely injured pedestrian, time delays in medical care could be the difference between life and death. Even if the victim survives, his or her life may be severely impacted for years to come.

Bonnici Law Group is an experienced civil attorney who knows that serious injuries require a long recovery process, resulting in lost wages and unexpected medical costs. If a reckless driver caused your injuries, call today to discuss how a personal injury lawsuit could help you get back on track.

Bonnici Law Group, APC – San Diego Personal Injury Attorneys

[Did You Know: Oregon, Illinois, Delaware and New York have all passed “vulnerable user” laws to help protect bicyclists and pedestrians.]