[09-11-2022] Santa Cruz County, CA – A 69-Year-Old Man was Killed Following a DUI Hit-and-Run Crash in the area of Capitola Road

A 69-year-old man, identified as James J., a resident of Santa Cruz, was struck and killed after a DUI hit-and-run crash accident in the area of Capitola Road on Sunday night, September 11, 2022.

According to the CHP, the crash happened around 10:10 p.m. a 69-year-old man in a motorized wheelchair was crossing Capitola Road when a Mercedes Benz struck him.

Johnson was transported to Natividad Medical Center, where he later passed away due to his wounds.

The Mercedes’ driver, later identified as 39-year-old Jessica T. Santa Cruz, fled the scene and left the car nearby.

Later, Thompson was located and detained for felony DUI, vehicular manslaughter, and hit-and-run at her residence.

Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident Statistics

Hit-and-run accidents are a severe problem in California. These accidents cause thousands of injuries and fatalities every year and cost millions of dollars in property damage.

According to the CHP, California had nearly 1,400 hit-and-run accidents in 2017. Of those, almost 300 involved pedestrians. Other types of vehicles that were struck include motorcycles and bicycles.

Approximately 30% of all fatal traffic accidents in California involve hit-and-run drivers. Severe injuries from these collisions include broken bones and traumatic brain injuries.

The number of hit-and-run accidents increases yearly, as does the severity of injuries sustained by victims. Pedestrian fatalities have increased since 2010 due to an increase in hit-and-run accidents.
While these numbers may seem low compared to the overall number of traffic accidents, they are still a cause for concern.

Santa Cruz County Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers

Recovering from a hit-and-run accident can be an overwhelming process. The stress of dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, and various other demands is enough to make anyone feel like they’re going insane.

Suppose the accident’s perpetrator left the scene without providing any information about who they were, whether you were the driver or a passenger. In that case, you might be entitled to compensation for your injuries. We are the Arash Law Firm, and we can assist you in obtaining the damages for the pain and suffering you are due.

We are aware of how difficult it is to handle these circumstances alone. To assist you, we’ve created this page to learn more about recovering from a hit-and-run accident and hiring our Santa Cruz County hit-and-run accident lawyers at Arash Law Firm.

To schedule your free auto accident consultation, contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 today. You won’t have to pay anything unless your case is successfully settled or litigated.