[05-24-2022] Los Angeles County, CA – One Man Killed in Fatal Hit-and-Run Crash in West Athens

A man was struck and killed by a driver who then fled the scene in a southwestern Los Angeles County community early Tuesday morning, May 24, 2022.

The crash occurred around 3:00 a.m. at the intersection of Vermont Avenue and 120th Street.

Members of the LA County Coroner’s office, the medical examiner’s office, and CHP officers arrived just after 6:00 a.m. in West Athens.

Investigators seized a wheelchair that was on the sidewalk near the victim.

It’s possible that the hit-and-run victim was in his wheelchair when he was hit, but investigators haven’t confirmed this yet.

Authorities have not yet identified the victim. The vehicle involved in the crash has also yet to be identified by authorities.

Although there is a marked crosswalk at the intersection, it is unclear whether the victim was crossing the street when he was struck.

Vermont lanes were closed during the investigation, but they have since reopened.

Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident Statistics

Anyone who leaves the scene of an accident after hitting someone else will always be held responsible. Once they are located, they will be apprehended and brought to justice.

One in five pedestrian deaths is caused by a driver who flees the scene of an accident. A hit-and-run driver is involved in 60% of pedestrian deaths.

AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety estimates that the United States experiences more than 680,000 hit-and-runs each year. Since 2009, the number of people killed in hit-and-run accidents has increased by 7% annually.

Hit-and-run accidents accounted for 11% of all traffic accidents in 2015. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the number of people killed and injured by hit-and-run drivers topped 1,800 in 2009. According to state data, hit-and-run accidents claimed 337 lives in California last year.

Due to intoxication, lack of a license, or fear of the consequences of their actions, these drivers often flee the scene.

Los Angeles County Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers

Everything changes when a close friend or family member passes away. Insurance companies and other organizations could be potential customers. Consult a lawyer to take preventative measures.

The deceased’s surviving family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit during this period. Members of the deceased’s family may seek compensation in a wrongful death case, such as lost wages and companionship, burial costs, pain, suffering, or emotional burden.

Our Los Angeles County hit-and-run accident lawyers at Arash Law are prepared to aggressively pursue and win compensation for victims. Lawsuit settlements and jury verdicts for our clients are our primary concern.

Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.