California motorists have a duty to yield to pedestrians and to share the road with all other motorists, cyclists and anyone on foot. All too often, drivers are distracted at the wheel and fail to provide all others on the road with the reasonable due care and concern they deserve- and the law requires.
If a motorist is negligent behind the wheel and injures another person, he could be facing much more than guilt and possible criminal charges. California civil law recognizes multiple causes of action that could apply in such situations and each comes with the potential for a hefty recovery. Anyone injured in a hit-and-run accident can recover a judgment that will compensate them for their medical expenses. In addition, the jury may also award punitive damages against a driver who has exhibited malicious, willful or wanton conduct toward the plaintiff, as is often in the case in a hit-and-run situation.
A pedestrian was seriously injured on Wednesday morning when he was struck near Orangewood Avenue around 2:00am. The vehicle is described as a silver Toyota pick-up truck that should be sporting significant damage to its front end and bumpers.
Little is known about the identity of the driver. The late hour coupled with the fact that few cars are out at that time of night has made locating a witness virtually impossible. According to police, the truck struck the man and continued on its way without even attempting to stop and help.
The victim remains in a local hospital with serious injuries. Police are seeking any possible information about this tragedy and urge the public to call 714-765-1860 with any tips.
In this kind of situation, it is helpful to remember that it is always better to stop and help an injured pedestrian than to try and evade police and obstruct justice. A driver willing to work and cooperate with law enforcement fairs a much better chance at receiving a lighter charge than one who flees the scene and requires an elaborate investigation.
Always practice prudence and reasonable conduct when behind the wheel. Never drive distracted or under the influence. Lives can change in the blink of an eye so always remain alert and focused on California’s roadways- you never know when finely-tuned alertness and focus can save a life.
