A teenager was killed in a hit-and-run accident on a Business Interstate 80 off-ramp in Sacramento. According to a KCRA news report, a black Chevy Silverado truck was traveling south on Business 80 and got off on the El Camino Avenue off-ramp when the driver lost control of the vehicle and went off the road. The truck overturned several times and a 17-year-old passenger was ejected from the truck. The teenager died at a hospital from his injuries.
The Silverado also struck another vehicle, which was stopped in the No. 2 lane of the southbound Business 80 on-ramp. When the Silverado finally came to a stop, the driver got out and ran to his home, where he was arrested. He was booked on suspicion of hit-and-run. The other passengers in the Silverado were taken to area hospitals and treated for a variety of injuries. The driver of the other vehicle that was struck complained of pain but did not go to a hospital. Officials are still examining the cause of the crash.
Leaving the Scene of a Crash
It is illegal under California law to leave the scene of a car accident. California Vehicle Code 20001 (a) states: “The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident.” Motorists are required under the law to not only stop and remain at the scene of the crash, but also to exchange information with other parties involved in the collision and most importantly, to provide assistance to the injured.
Steps to Take after a Hit and Run
If you were injured by a hit-and-run driver, there are a number of steps you can take to protect your rights. Get a license plate number if you can. Report the incident to the police. Complete the accident report with the police and include information about witnesses if available. Contact your insurance company and report the accident. If the police are not available to take a report, try to obtain written statements from witnesses including their names, addresses, email and other contact information. Take as many photographs of the scene as you can.
Contact Demas Law Group for Help
Contact an experienced car accident attorney in Sacramento, CA who will stay abreast of the official investigation and help ensure that your legal rights and best interests will be protected. If the driver who injured you has not been apprehended or if he or she lacks sufficient insurance coverage, you may be able to seek compensation through the uninsured motorist clause of your own auto insurance policy.
Our knowledgeable car accident lawyers will be able to guide you through a complex process and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Call the Demas Law Group P.C., at (916) 444-0100 for a free consultation.
