Hit-and-Run Driver Involved In Anaheim Crash

A woman was injured and transported to a local hospital this morning after a hit-and-run accident in the city of Anaheim.  According to a report by the Orange County Register, the male driver of a Chevrolet Cavalier apparently made a left turn into the path of an oncoming Honda Civic just before 11:00 a.m. today.  The accident happened on Euclid Street near its intersection with Catherine Drive in Anaheim.  As a result of the impact, the Civic struck a parked car.  Fortunately, a 1 -year-old  in the Civic was uninjured.  The driver of the Cavalier fled the scene of the accident on foot and has yet to be located.

See the Orange County Register article HERE.

The law in California is clear, a left turning driver may only make and continue their turn so long as it is reasonably safe to do so.  Under the California Vehicle Code, "The driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left at an intersection or into public or private property, or an alley, shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles which have approached or are approaching from the opposite direction and which are so close as to constitute a hazard at any time during the turning movement and shall continue to yield the right-of-way to such approaching vehicles until such time as the left turn can be made with reasonable safety.."  From the fact the collision occurred and the driver of the Cavalier fled the scene (possibly demonstrating consciousness of guilt), it would appear the Vehicle Code was violated and hit-and-run driver would be liable for the injuries and damages he sustained.  Beyond that, he may well have committed a crime in that he left the scene of an injury accident without properly identifying himself or attempting to render aid to the other driver.

Compensation for the victims of automobile accidents caused by negligent drivers should be an important concern for all Californians. When a driver operates their vehicle in violation of the law, they should be held accountable for the injuries and damages they cause.  An Orange County auto accident lawyer with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has more than 20 years of experience handling Orange County automobile accident cases, including those involving drivers making illegal turns.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a loved one been injured or killed by a left-turning driver?

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.