A 30-year-old man was killed after a hit-and-run crash in National City on Saturday morning, September 28, 2024.
According to the police, the victim was crossing the street in the 2400 block of Sweetwater Road when he was struck by a dark-colored SUV at around 2:30 a.m.
Following the impact, the driver pulled over, moved the severely injured pedestrian to the side of the road, and then fled the scene in his vehicle, authorities reported.
Paramedics transported the victim to Scripps Mercy Hospital in San Diego, where he was pronounced dead. His name has not been released pending notification of his family.
Approximately eight hours after the fatal incident, officers arrested 43-year-old Bennie W. in San Diego.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Contact Our Reliable Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers In San Diego County
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident in the area, you have the right to pursue legal action or file an insurance claim. Our personal injury law firm in San Diego County is here to assist you! Consult with our experienced attorneys, who specialize in hit-and-run cases under the guidance of Arash Khorsandi, Esq. We will thoroughly assess your case, recommend the best course of action, and examine the key factors that may influence the settlement you could receive.
If you’re having difficulty obtaining additional information or a police report, our dedicated attorneys are ready to help. Our trusted San Diego County hit-and-run lawyers will protect your rights and provide skilled representation in any legal proceedings. With over $500 million recovered for clients across California, you can have peace of mind knowing you’re in great hands.
To speak with one of our personal injury lawyers, call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form.
Actions To Take Following A Hit-And-Run Accident In San Diego County
Following a hit-and-run accident, taking specific steps is crucial to protecting your right to compensation. These actions not only assist law enforcement in locating the driver but also strengthen your claim for fair compensation. Here’s what you should do:
- Gather As Much Information As Possible At The Scene. Try to note the license plate number, make, model, and color of the vehicle involved. If possible, take photos of the vehicle and the accident scene. These details can significantly help authorities identify and locate the driver responsible.
- Contact The Authorities Immediately. Report the accident to the police as soon as possible. Prompt reporting increases the chances of apprehending the driver. Additionally, filing a police report creates an official record of the incident. Within a few days, you can request a collision report from either the police station or the California DMV, which will be vital when you file a claim.
- Obtain Witness Information. Witnesses to the accident may offer valuable testimony. Be sure to gather their names and contact details right away, as they may leave before the police or emergency services arrive. A witness can corroborate your version of events, confirming that you were not at fault.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention. It’s important to visit a doctor as soon as possible to get checked for any injuries, even if you feel fine. Following your doctor’s treatment plan is essential for your recovery and also serves to document your injuries for your claim.
- Notify Your Insurance Provider. While it’s important to inform your insurance company about the accident promptly, be sure to stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault. Refrain from giving a recorded statement or accepting any settlement offers until you’ve consulted with a lawyer who specializes in hit-and-run cases in California.
Hit-And-Run Accident Statistics
ValuePenguin’s study shows that 2,783 reported hit-and-run accidents were fatal in 2021. That is up by 89.4% from the same metric recorded in 2012 (1,469). Furthermore, the percentage of fatal crashes involving hit-and-runs also surged during this period. In 2021, 7% of fatal crashes resulted from hit-and-runs, 48.7% higher than the 2012 record (4.7%).
According to the latest California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) report, San Diego County recorded 1,608 fatalities and injuries involving hit-and-runs in 2021.