An elderly man who was fatally injured in a pedestrian accident in Vista has been identified by authorities as 73-year-old Richard Louis Canngiano. San Diego 6 reports that the fatal collision occurred the morning of June 9, 2010 in the 1300 block of East Vista way. Officials say both vehicles that struck Canngiano did not stop or wait for authorities to arrive. One of the vehicles is described as a dark-colored Ford Ranger pickup truck. An investigation is ongoing.
My heart goes out to everybody who knew and loved Richard Louis Canngiano. I offer my deepest sympathies to his families and friends for their profound loss.
Hit-and-Run Statistics
California Highway Patrol's traffic accident statistics show that there were 17,158 hit-and-run collisions that resulted in fatalities or injuries in California, in 2008. A majority of these were injury car accidents. Also, 247 people were killed in 2008 due to hit-and-run crashes statewide.
Leaving the Scene of an Accident
Leaving the scene of a crash or hit-and-run is a serious crime 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." Motorists are required to stop at the scene irrespective of whose fault the accident was. Not only are they required to exchange important information with other parties, but also obtain medical aid for the injured victim.
Liability Issues
In such cases injured victims or their families would be well-advised to contact an experienced San Diego personal injury lawyer, who will help protect their legal rights. A skilled car accident lawyer will also be able to determine whether a dangerous roadway condition caused or contributed to this crash. If that was the case, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining that roadway could also be held liable. Under California Government Code section 911.2, any claim against a governmental agency must be filed within 180 days of the accident or injury.
What are the most dangerous roadways or intersections for pedestrians in your city or neighborhood?
None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.
