LOPOC, CA (SEPTEMBER 27, 2023): 64-year-old Rafael Rodriguez has been charged with felony hit-and-run after striking and injuring a woman and a child and fleeing the scene.
The incident occurred on the evening of Friday, September 22nd, as a woman and a five-year-old girl were crossing the street near the 400 block of West Walnut Street when they were struck by a black Jeep.
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The Jeep fled the scene upon impact.
Witnesses urged another driver to follow the Jeep, and police were able to obtain a license plate from the vehicle. Lopoc authorities later arrested Rafael Rodriguez.
The woman and child were transported to Marian Regional Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of Rafael Rodriguez’s hit-and-run in Lopoc.
Liability In Lopoc Pedestrian Accidents
Thousands of pedestrians are killed or seriously injured every year in pedestrian accidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control, “An estimated 137,000 pedestrians were treated in emergency departments for nonfatal crash-related injuries in 2017. Per trip, pedestrians are 1.5 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to be killed in a car crash.” There are a number of factors that could lead to a pedestrian collision including:
-Speeding
-Drunk driving
-Driver distraction
-Inclement weather
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid hitting pedestrians. The family of any victim that died in a pedestrian collision may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the factors of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating Rafael Rodriguez’s Pedestrian hit-and-run
We at Accident News Now extend our well wishes to those injured in this collision, and hope for a speedy recovery. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Have you or someone you care about been injured in a car accident? Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need assistance after an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965
