A 7-year-old girl suffered major injuries in a hit-and-run car accident in Santa Ana after an SUV struck her. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the injury crash occurred in the 400 block of South Birch Street, the evening of December 4, 2012. Police say the girl was walking with her mother when she suddenly darted out into the street. She was struck by a dark-colored SUV and dragged about 15 yards. The girl suffered injuries to her head and body and was transported to an area hospital. She is expected to survive. The driver of the SUV fled the scene. The investigation is ongoing.
My thoughts and prayers are with the young victim of this hit-and-run crash. I wish her the very best for a quick and full recovery.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics
There were six deaths and 134 injuries involving pedestrian accidents in Santa Ana, according to California Highway Patrol’s 2010 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). During the same year, 32 people died and 770 were injured as a result of pedestrian accidents countywide.
Leaving the Scene of an Accident
Based on this news account, the SUV’s driver struck the little girl who darted across the roadway, dragged her for a short distance and then drove away leaving her injured and lying on the street. Appalling! Leaving the scene of an injury car accident is not only inhumane and irresponsible, but also illegal. According to California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a), motorists are required to stop and remain at the scene of an accident, regardless of who was at fault. In addition, they must exchange pertinent information and help the victim obtain assistance. This could be something as simple as calling 911 so the victim gets timely help. However, in this case, the driver chose to do none of the above.
Protecting Victims’ Rights
Victims of hit-and-run collisions or their families would be well advised to contact an experienced injury attorney in Santa Ana, who will stay on top of the official investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. If a dangerous roadway condition caused or contributed to the accident, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway can also be held liable. Under California Government Code Section 911.2, any personal injury claim against a public entity must be filed within six months of the incident.
SLS Consulting