North Highlands, CA – A 44-year-old man was struck and killed in a hit-and-run incident near Watt Avenue and Highway 244 in Sacramento County on Monday morning, September 16, 2024, according to ABC10.
The crash occurred around the onramp for the eastbound Capital City Freeway, an area that borders both Arden Arcade and North Highlands.
Authorities report that a vehicle was traveling southbound on Watt Avenue, approaching the freeway onramp, when it struck the man who was standing in the roadway. The driver did not stop after the collision, leaving the scene before emergency responders arrived.
Unfortunately, the pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of his injuries. His identity has not yet been released, pending notification of his family.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has identified a potential suspect vehicle, believed to be a 2012-2015 Toyota Camry. Investigators are urging anyone with information to come forward, as they continue searching for the driver responsible.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a specific “Duty of Care” towards pedestrians, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for pedestrians near the roadway and, if a fatal collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a pedestrian accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
If the at-fault driver avoids legal consequences, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.
California Hit-and-Run Laws
California Law requires drivers involved in a collision to stop their vehicle, notify law enforcement, and exchange insurance information with others involved. Failure to do so, considered to be a “hit-and-run,” is a misdemeanor in cases of property damage and a felony when someone has been injured.
