On Thursday, January 13th, a 39-year-old woman suffered serious injuries after she was struck by an unidentified vehicle that fled the scene, according to the Orange County Register citing police sources.  The incident occurred at approximately 12:10 a.m. on Warner Avenue west of Nichols Lane, according to the Huntington Beach Police Department.  Officers found the woman injured and unconscious on the roadway, police said.

According to police, the vehicle that struck the victim left the scene of the crash. The driver has not yet been identified.  The victim was treated at the scene by Huntington Beach Fire Department paramedics and was taken to UCI Medical Center where she was treated for serious injuries.  Police said there were conflicting vehicle descriptions given at the time of the crash. Witnesses are urged to call the Huntington Beach Police Department Traffic Bureau at 714-536-5670.

See the complete story and photos at http://www.ocregister.com/news/-283951--.html

Under California law, a driver who leaves the scene of an injury accident is guilty of violating Vehicle Code Section 20001, which provides in part:  "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 and shall fulfill the requirements of Sections 20003 and 20004" (having to do with sharing insurance and identifying information).  In the case above, the driver of the vehicle that struck the victim undoubtedly violated this section, and the only apparent question is whether the injuries justify the most sever sanction permitted.  Section 20001 provides for a prison sentence of up to four years when "death, or permanent injury, serious" results from the accident.   As used in that section, "permanent, serious injury" means the loss or permanent impairment of function of a bodily member or organ.

Compensation for the victims of hit and run accidents is an important concern for all Californians.  When a victim is seriously injured or killed and the driver flees the scene, that driver should be held accountable for any injuries and damages suffered as a result.  An Orange County trial lawyer with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has more than 19 years of experience handling personal injury cases, including just this type.  Mr. Ralph can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a family member been a victim of a hit and run accident?

• Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above.  This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter.  A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.