An elderly pedestrian was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver last night in the City of Compton. According to KABC News, the 65-year-old victim was struck and dragged approximately 75 feet by a white sedan. The accident reportedly happened about 9:00 p.m. on North Alameda Street near East Oaks Street. The accident is being investigated as a crime, and anyone with information should call the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Compton Station at (310) 605-6500.
The Accident Scene
The scene of the accident appears to be in a commercial area, and the roadway is flat and straight. While it will depend on the exact point of impact, there seem to be a number of street lights in the area that would presumably help drivers see any pedestrians crossing the road. However, there does not appear to be a clearly marked crosswalk on Alameda in the vicinity of the accident. While this may prove important in the investigation, it should be remembered that a "marked" crosswalk is not always required before a pedestrian can walk across a street.
Wrongful Death Claims in California
Under California law, the surviving family members of the hit-and-run accident victim have the right to bring a claim against the driver for the recovery of certain damages. In this State, those damages include the loss of the "love, companionship, comfort, care, assistance, protection, affection, society, and moral support" of the decedent. Additionally, the surviving family may recover for the loss of financial support, the loss of gifts or benefits, the cost of the funeral and burial expenses, and the reasonable value of household services the deceased would have provided.
If you have lost a family member because of a negligent or reckless driver, contacting a wrongful death attorney is likely an important first step toward securing compensation and civil justice.
SOURCE: Compton hit-and-run driver drags, kills 65-year-old pedestrian, KABC News, Los Angeles News, July 3, 2013
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