(Los Angeles, CA) Several people, including infant twins, suffered injuries in a serious West Alpine Street collision. It happened in Chinatown neighborhood of Los Angeles on Monday morning. Authorities later arrested the driver a block away from the scene.
On Friday, September 19, at 11:47 a.m., the West Alpine Street collision occurred in the 100 block near Chinatown. According to the Los Angeles Fire Department, five people were hurt. Four were taken to local hospitals while one refused transport.
Later updates confirmed three more patients from the vehicle, the 1-year-old twins and the driver, were also hospitalized. Officials have not yet released details about their conditions. The crash prompted a heavy emergency response. Police closed surrounding streets while Central Traffic Division officers examined evidence and gathered witness statements. Although the call first came in as a hit-and-run, officers located and arrested the suspected driver nearby. Investigators are still working to determine what caused the West Alpine Street collision.
Hit and runs are a serious and delicate situation. The state of California takes these cases very seriously. It’s important for all drivers to know what to do in a hit-and-run.
Legal Perspective on the West Alpine Street Collision
This crash raises several serious legal issues under California law. Because pedestrians and children suffered injuries, police and prosecutors will examine the driver’s conduct closely. One key law is California Vehicle Code 20001, which makes it a felony to flee the scene of a crash that causes injury or death. While police arrested the driver shortly after, the fact that the first reports of incident came in as a hit-and-run highlights potential violation of this statute.
If speeding played a role, California Vehicle Code 22350 becomes important. Known as the Basic Speed Law, it requires drivers to travel only at speeds safe for the road and traffic conditions. Striking multiple people could suggest unsafe driving behavior. Another possible violation is California Vehicle Code 23152, which prohibits driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Police have not confirmed impairment, but toxicology tests may be part of the investigation.
Because children sustained injuries, prosecutors may also consider enhanced penalties if police determine negligence or reckless driving contributed to the crash. On the civil side, victims have the right to file personal injury claims to cover medical bills, lost wages, and emotional suffering.
How the Families Can Move Forward
Families affected by this crash should know they are not without options. A personal injury attorney can review the police report, analyze crash scene evidence, and consult medical professionals to calculate long-term care costs.
For the parents of the injured twins, pursuing legal action can help ensure resources are available for ongoing treatment. Pedestrians who were struck may also have claims for pain, suffering, and income loss. Taking early steps with a lawyer allows families to protect their rights, preserve crucial evidence, and seek accountability for the harm caused by the West Alpine Street collision.
We at Accident News Now offer our encouragement and support. We know this is a confusing time as you deal with the uncertainties resulting from this terrible incident. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.