[04-17-2023] Santa Barbara County, CA – Male Pedestrian Killed After Hit-And-Run Crash in Santa Maria

A male pedestrian was killed in a hit-and-run crash in Santa Maria on Monday night, April 17, 2023.

According to the Santa Maria Police Department, the crash happened around 8:30 p.m. near the intersection of Betteravia Road and Oakley Avenue.

The car driver did not stop and was last seen moving west on Betteravia Road. The police reported that the suspect drove a dark-colored sedan.

The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. The police confirmed his identity, but his name will be withheld until his next of kin is notified.

The authorities still need to release further information about the crash.

Reputable Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers in Santa Maria

Even if the negligent driver cannot be located after a hit-and-run accident, you should speak with an experienced lawyer.

You can talk to your lawyer if you are worried about how the legal system works. They will handle the insurance paperwork, ensure accuracy, and look out for your interests. You can negotiate a better settlement with your insurance company if you have a lawyer.

Our reputable Santa Barbara County hit-and-run accident lawyers at Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., have a proven track record of successfully representing injured victims in court. With our assistance, clients have received over $750 million in compensation.

For a free case review, call us at (888) 488-1391 or go to our website and click the “Do I Have a Case?” link.

What Should You Do Following A Hit-and-Run Accident?

We recognize that you are struggling through a challenging time right now. The incident could be distressing and upsetting. But knowing that the person who caused the accident ran away from the scene without looking for the victim, calling the police, or leaving any personal information can leave you feeling furious, angry, and powerless.

Our law office has assisted numerous accident victims in California in the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident that resulted in fatalities and injuries. For our clients’ compensation, we fight tenaciously. This guide was created to help you understand what to do after a hit-and-run accident and, more importantly, what not to do.

• Contact the police following a collision and ask for an accident report.
• Record every detail, including the circumstances, the route taken, and the car that ran over the victim.
• Take pictures of the license plate, insurance card, and driver’s license.
• Speak with a doctor or other medical expert if there is no chance of death.
• All witnesses and anyone else who saw the accident should have their names, addresses, and phone numbers collected.
• Keep track of all expenses in a journal.
• Before speaking with a hit-and-run attorney, you shouldn’t deal with an insurance adjuster or accept a settlement offer.
• Avoid discussing mishaps or circumstances.
• Please contact our renowned Santa Barbara hit-and-run accident lawyer for legal advice.

Fatal Hit-And-Run Accident Statistics

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports 680,000 fatalities or injuries each year in the United States. Since 2009, there have been 7% more hit-and-run fatalities annually on average. In 2015, hit-and-run accidents caused 11% of all fatalities.

In 2009, hit-and-run drivers injured around 1.8 million people. The year before, California had 337 fatal hit-and-run accidents. Negligent drivers who leave the scene of an accident should face legal consequences. The offender will face severe and immediate repercussions.

According to recent statistics, 60% of pedestrian fatalities are caused by hit-and-run drivers. They are too stunned to drive drunk, or their intoxication renders them unconcerned with the outcome.