Arrest Made In Newport Beach Hit-and-Run Collision
Arrest Made In Newport Beach Hit-and-Run Collision
A San Clemente man has been arrested in connection with a fatal hit-and-run crash in Newport Beach early morning on Jan. 1, 2015 that killed 23-year-old Travis Marton of Valencia.
According to a report in the Orange County Register, the fatal crash occurred at the intersection of Newport Coast Drive and Pacific Coast Highway.
A motorist reported to Newport Beach police about a possible body in the roadway at the intersection. Police found Marton lying in a southbound lane.
He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Laguna Beach police, a little while later, stopped 56-year-old Ronald Lloyd Aviles, who was driving a minivan, which has a lot of damage to the front, consistent with a collision.
Newport Beach police did the investigation and arrested Aviles on suspicion of fatal hit-and-run. Police do not believe that alcohol played a part. The investigation is ongoing.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family members and friends of Travis Marton for their tragic loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Hit-and-Run Statistics
According to California Highway Patrol’s 2012 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 194 fatalities and 18,824 injuries involving hit-and-run crashes statewide.
Of those, 116 deaths and 2,147 injuries involved pedestrians. In Newport Beach two pedestrians were killed and 21 were injured in 2012, according to the report.
Holding Drivers Accountable
We are relieved to note that this hit-and-run suspect has been apprehended and that the legal system will take its course.
Based on this news report, the driver left the scene, leaving the victim lying on the darkened roadway, exposing him to further harm.
Outrageous! Leaving the scene of an injury crash is illegal under California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a).
There is simply no good excuse for leaving the scene of an injury crash. “I panicked” or “I was scared” simply don’t cut it!
Hit-and-run victims or their families are often left with significant emotional and financial burdens. If you have been injured, or if you have lost a loved one in a hit-and-run, Bisnar Chase are experienced Newport Beach personal injury lawyers who will stay abreast of the official investigation and ensure that your legal rights and best interests are protected.
A knowledgeable car accident attorney will also be able to advise victims and families about how their own auto insurance might apply to a hit-and-run crash or in a case where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.
