Modesto, CA – Three pedestrians were struck by a vehicle in a hit-and-run incident on Wednesday evening, October 16, 2024, according to The Modesto Bee.
Around 7 PM, the pedestrians were walking along the Keller Avenue sidewalk when the vehicle hit them, leaving one teenager with serious injuries.
Authorities quickly arrived at the scene and arranged for the injured teenager to be airlifted to UC Davis Medical Center.
The driver responsible for the hit-and-run fled the scene after the collision. Though the driver has been identified, Modesto police had not released details regarding the suspect’s identity or if an arrest had been made.
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.
Duty of Care Toward Pedestrians
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 collision occurs, staying with the victim to ensure they get proper medical treatment and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those injured in a pedestrian accident, filing a Personal Injury claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills 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.
