Man Found Dead on Santa Ana Roadway is Possible Hit and Run Victim

Santa Ana police are looking for a hit-and-run suspect after a man was found bleeding in the road early morning March 22. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the victim, who has not yet been identified, was found dead by the Orange County Fire Authority on East Goetz Street in Santa Ana. Evidence at the scene suggested that the man was struck while riding his bicycle. The death is being investigated as a possible hit and run. Anyone who saw the collision or has other information about this incident is asked to contact Santa Ana police at 714-245-8200.

We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of this deceased victim for their tragic loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Breaking the Law

Based on this news report, it appears that the bicyclist was struck and severely injured, but left bleeding and lying in the roadway, exposed to further danger. Leaving the scene of an injury or fatal crash is a felony offense under California law. California Vehicle Code 20001 (a) states: “The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident.”

Under this law, motorists are also required to exchange pertinent information with other involved parties such as vehicle license plate, insurance information and contact details. Most importantly, drivers are required to help the injured victim. The assistance they provide could be something as minor as calling 911 so the victim gets medical assistance right away. This could make the difference between life and death in many cases.

Justice for Victims and Families

A hit and run devastates individuals and families emotionally and financially. Without a person to hold accountable, families that have lost loved ones tend to struggle to pay for medical expenses (if any) and funeral and burial costs, which could add up to thousands of dollars. Injured victims or victims’ families would be well advised to contact an experienced Santa Ana hit-and-run lawyer who will stay abreast of the official investigation and help protect their rights and best interests. We hope the driver, in this case, is apprehended and brought to justice.

Source: https://www.ocregister.com/2018/03/22/man-found-dead-in-santa-ana-may-be-hit-and-run-victim/