A 36-year-old man died after being struck by a hit-and-run driver in an SUV in Wilmington, Los Angeles, while setting off fireworks on Monday evening, July 3, 2023.
The Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics arrived at the 700 block of North Fries Avenue, near West G Street, shortly after 9:10 p.m.
The collision caused the man to be thrown a distance and partially underneath another vehicle leaving a shopping center. Tragically, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have verified that the driver of the initial vehicle failed to stop and provide assistance, choosing instead to flee the scene. The driver is described only as a Hispanic female.
The vehicle was last observed heading northbound on Fries Avenue from G Street.
The identity of the victim remains undisclosed as the investigation is ongoing.
Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers in Los Angeles
In California, if you or a loved one have been a victim of a hit-and-run accident, there are avenues to pursue compensation. You can file a claim with your insurance provider or take legal action. When dealing with the consequences of someone else’s negligence that has caused significant harm or losses, it is essential to seek the support of an experienced hit-and-run lawyer in California.
Our reliable team of hit-and-run accident lawyers is ready to provide a free initial consultation. During this consultation, we will assess your situation, offer guidance on the appropriate course of action, and consider relevant factors that may impact the potential settlement you could receive.
You can rely on our trusted Los Angeles hit-and-run accident lawyers at Arash Law, under the direction of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., to effectively represent you in these court proceedings. Our firm has recovered more than $750 Million for California clients.
If you want to speak with one of our lawyers, please call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form.
What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident
Even if the driver in the accident flees the scene, there are still avenues available to track them down. By taking necessary measures, you can aid law enforcement in locating and apprehending the responsible individual while bolstering your case if you choose to pursue a legal compensation claim. The following guidelines outline the steps to follow after a hit-and-run accident:
- Get immediate medical help: It is crucial not to delay seeking medical assistance, even if you don’t feel any immediate pain or discomfort. Make it a priority to visit a doctor promptly if you have sustained significant injuries.
- Report the incident to the authorities: Immediately inform the police about the incident and ensure that you obtain a copy of the accident report from the police station or the appropriate department, such as the California DMV.
- Inform your insurance company: Notify your insurance provider promptly about the hit-and-run accident, providing them with all the necessary details.
- Collect evidence from the accident scene: Gather as much information as possible from where the accident occurred. It includes noting the license plate number and the vehicle’s make, model, and color.
- Acquire witness statements: Obtain contact information (names and phone numbers) from any potential witnesses present at the scene and do this as soon as possible.
- Seek advice from a California hit-and-run accident lawyer: Before accepting any settlement offers from other insurance companies, consulting a lawyer specializing in hit-and-run accidents is wise. They can provide valuable guidance and protect your rights.
Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident Statistics
Leaving the scene of an accident without offering assistance or reporting it to the authorities violates the law in the United States. Committing the act of causing an accident and fleeing from it are considered criminal offenses.
Based on statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 737,100 documented hit-and-run accidents in the United States in 2015. This means that, on average, a hit-and-run incident occurred approximately every 43 seconds. Unfortunately, in 2016 alone, these hit-and-run incidents resulted in the tragic loss of 2,049 lives.
From 2010 to 2019, California recorded 2,948 hit-and-run collisions, leading to a devastating total of 3,056 fatalities. Compared to other states, California has one of the highest rates of this type of accident.