Thomas Joseph Meeks, 19, was killed in a San Bernardino car accident after both, he and his 15-year-old stepbrother were fatally struck by a hit-and-run driver. The San Bernardino Sun reports that the fatal accident occurred the night of February 19, 2010 on 40th Street, near Johnson Street and Acre Lane. The two teens were on their way home on a bicycle when they were struck.
Meeks was pronounced dead at the scene and his brother was transported to a hospital with critical injuries. Police are looking for the hit-and-run vehicle. The suspect vehicle is described as a Chrysler or Pontiac with front-end damage near the license plate. Anyone who saw this accident or has information is asked to call local police at 909-384-5738.
My heart goes out to the family and friends of Thomas Joseph Meeks for their devastating loss. I also hope and pray that the critically injured 15-year-old, who has suffered a severe head injury, makes a complete recovery. This family will certainly be in my thoughts and prayers.
California Hit-and-Run Law
Hit-and-run is a serious crime in California. According to California Vehicle Code section 20001: "The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident." I trust that this driver, who left the scene of the crash, will soon be apprehended and brought to justice.
Claim for Compensation
In such cases, victims or their families would be well-advised to contact a reputed California personal injury lawyer, who has an excellent track record of holding negligent drivers accountable. If there was a dangerous condition on the roadway, which may have caused or contributed to this accident, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway could be held liable as well. According to California Governmental Code section 911.2, any claim against a California governmental entity must be filed within six months of the accident or injury.
The deceased victim's family could also file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation to cover funeral expenses, lost earnings, loss of companionship, and other related damages. The best California personal injury law firms will always offer a free and comprehensive consultation to injured victims and their families.
The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.
SLS Consulting