Street Racing Claims Investigated in South Los Angeles Bus Crash
Officials are looking into claims by eyewitnesses that a collision between a car and bus, which left seven injured, could have been caused by street racing. According to a KTLA news report, the crash occurred at the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Western Avenue in the Vermont Square neighborhood. Witnesses say a black Mercedes-Benz was racing a white Dodge Challenger before both vehicles ran into a Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) bus. The bus was unoccupied at the time except for the driver.
Several Injuries Reported
Six of the seven people injured in the crash were hospitalized, including two in critical condition. A witness claimed a third vehicle was also racing prior to the crash, but that hasn’t been confirmed yet. If investigators make a determination that street racing was involved, the motorists could face reckless driving charges. Authorities were expected to return to the crash scene and examine surveillance video to determine precisely what occurred.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the injured victims of this crash. We wish them the very best for a speedy and full recovery.
Law Against Street Racing
Based on this news report, eyewitnesses say the collision at the intersection was caused by speeding vehicles that may have been racing one another. Racing a vehicle on a public roadway is illegal under California law.
California Vehicle Code section 23109 (a) states: “A person shall not engage in a motor vehicle speed contest on a highway. As used in this section, a motor vehicle speed contest includes a motor vehicle race against another vehicle, a clock, or other timing device. For purposes of this section, an event in which the time to cover a prescribed route of more than 20 miles is measured, but where the vehicle does not exceed the speed limits, is not a speed contest.”
Justice for Victims
In cases involving street racing, in addition to facing criminal charges, negligent or reckless motorists can also be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses they cause. Injured victims can seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress. Injured victims would also be well advised to contact an experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney who will stay abreast of the official investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.