Pedestrian killed by hit-and-run driver in California

A pedestrian was killed by a hit-and-run driver outside of El Cajon in the early morning of July 28. The driver later told police that he did not know he had hit a person so he continued home after the impact. He is reportedly cooperating with police in the investigation, and officials do not believe alcohol had played a role in the accident.

A witness who reported the accident to police said the vehicle hit a pedestrian in front of Sycuan Casino. Police then contacted the driver at his home. The driver admitted to feeling the impact of the collision but claimed to be unaware he had hit a person.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the fatal accident took place at about 12:35 a.m. on Dehesa Road near Willow Glen Drive when a 1996 Chevy Suburban, which was headed west on the road, struck a 57-year-old male pedestrian. The SUV had been traveling at a speed between 35 and 45 miles per hour at the time of the incident.

In this case, the cause of the collision is unknown. The causes of similar accidents can include road and weather conditions as well as driving under the influence and distracted driving. Depending on the cause of the accident, a driver might be found negligent in court. A personal injury lawyer representing the injured victim or the family of a deceased victim might help the plaintiffs file a lawsuit seeking compensation from an allegedly negligent driver. In a successful wrongful death claim, for example, the plaintiffs might be compensated for economic losses such as funeral and burial costs and loss of support, gifts and services. Non-economic damages might include loss of companionship, love, comfort and society.

Source: San Diego 6, "UPDATED: MAN STRUCK AND KILLED BY SUV NEAR EL CAJON", July 28, 2014