Cotati, CA (September 27, 2024) A driver tragically killed a pedestrian who was then struck by multiple vehicles shortly after midnight today.
California Highway Patrol reported that a vehicle struck a pedestrian on the 101 in the northbound lanes around 12:10 a.m. The pedestrian was lying in the roadway after the initial hit. Multiple oncoming vehicles then proceeded to run over the victim.
CHP reported around 1:45 a.m. that the pedestrian had succumbed to their injuries.
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim. We know this is an awfully difficult time as you mourn the tragic and sudden loss of a loved one. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this crash, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us anytime. We are here day and night, ready to ease the burden of this overwhelming and terrible event.
Have you or a loved one been impacted by this event? Our team specializes in pedestrian accidents and we are here to help. You can reach us 24/7 at 866-883-4318 or visit our online contact form at Accident News Now.
The Legal Details:
Officers will likely seek out the initial driver who hit the pedestrian and didn’t stop to render aid. It’s possible the other drivers who hit the pedestrian and continued on will face legal liability, too. The initial driver may be primarily at fault, but investigators will probably consider the actions of the other motorists. If they saw the pedestrian lying in the road, struck them, and neglected to try to help, they could face legal repercussions.
Hit-and-Run Consequences:
–California Vehicle Code 20002 states that a person who left an accident scene, failed to identify themselves to the others in the accident, and damaged someone else’s property is guilty of misdemeanor hit-and-run.
–A misdemeanor hit-and-run carries a maximum penalty of no more than six months in the county jail and a fine starting at $1,000 dollars. It also requires victim restitution and will result in points on one’s driving record.
–A hit-and-run that results in injury or death is a felony, in accordance with California Vehicle Code 20003.
–A felony hit-and-run that results in a non-serious injury can mean up to 1 year in jail or prison. If the accident resulted in serious injury or death, a judge could give a suspect 2 to 4 years in prison, and a fine ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. Like a misdemeanor hit-and-run, it also requires victim restitution and will put points on one’s driving record.
