Young Father Critically Injured in Hit and Run Collision
A search is on by authorities for a hit and run driver who left a 22-year-old father on life support in Sacramento recently. It was reported that the suspected white Ford Crown Victoria that struck the car of Anthony Martin as he was going home from work has a No. 2 at its rear window and damage to the front end. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is asking that those who have information about the vehicle or driver to call them at (916) 681-2300.
How the Hit and Run Accident Happened
The accident occurred on westbound US 50 at around 1:00 p.m. near the exit ramp for Stockton Boulevard and involved three vehicles. A witness reported that the driver of a Crown Victoria was driving recklessly and at a speed of at least 100 mph when the collision happened. The hit and run driver reportedly caught a ride on the freeway from a good Samaritan and then exited the vehicle on Stockton Boulevard.
Tragic Injuries Occurred Because of the Hit and Run Accident
Anthony Martin was left in critical condition at UC Davis Medical Center as a result of the hit and run accident. His mother, Melody Martin, reports that he is on a ventilator and has a severe traumatic brain injury and spinal cord damage. Martin is the father of a 2-year-old son.
Frightening Increase in California Speeding Incidents
Drivers in California, including the Sacramento area, appear to be taking advantage of the stay at home order due to COVID-19 to act recklessly, which endangers others. According to the CHP, 2,738 citations were handed out for speeders between March 19 and the end of April. The number of citations represents those drivers who were speeding over 100 mph. It represents a 46 percent increase over 2019. In a study by the UC Davis Road Ecology Center, the incidence of speeds over 100 mph has increased by about 30 percent, a statistic they found disturbing.
Finding a Fleeing Driver
Obviously, a hit and run driver doesn’t want to be found. However, my law office is experienced with fleeing driver accidents and makes a strong effort to locate them. We conduct a full investigation and work with police before the evidence is lost and to support our client’s claim for compensation. Some of the areas in which our investigators work to collect evidence include:
- Looking for paint smears, tire tracks or auto parts that can identify the make and model of the vehicle
- Taking statements from witnesses and checking to see if the police report is correct
- Searching traffic and business surveillance cameras to see if the accident is found on tape as it happened
- Performing accident reconstruction, which can help indicate the positioning of the vehicles involved and point toward reckless behavior such as speeding or intoxication.
Our lawyers go to work once all the evidence has been compiled. This can be used either in negotiations with the insurance company on our client’s behalf or in preparing a strong court case.
Another Option to Recover Damages
In some cases, the hit and run driver cannot be found. However, one option to recover compensation that can help pay medical bills is through uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This is optional insurance that is offered to all drivers. If the injured person does not have this insurance, they can use the policy of a family member who does. Insurance rates do not go up if the uninsured policy coverage is used.
Personal Injury Lawyer in Sacramento
I’m Ed Smith, a personal injury lawyer in Sacramento. Injuries in a motor vehicle crash can end up as a financial drain with high medical bills, lost wages and no compensation for the pain and suffering. If a negligent motorist was the cause, it may be possible to recover those losses. Call me for my free and friendly advice at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400. I can also be reached online.
The following links offer information about my law firm:
I’ve obtained compensation for many Sacramentans since 1982, including in wrongful deaths, truck and car accidents, and cases that involve traumatic injuries.
I belong to the Million Dollar Forum and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel.
Photo Attribution: https://www.pexels.com/photo/ambulance-architecture-building-business-263402/
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