LOS ANGELES, CA (August 24, 2022) – Miguel Velazquez, 30, was rear-ended and badly injured by a hit-and-run driver in a Mini Cooper in Downtown L.A. according to KTLA 5.
The collision occurred on August 14 at around 12:35 a.m. when Velazquez was at a stop at a red light on his moped. The driver of the Mini Cooper slammed into Velazquez, causing him to fly onto the hood of the Mini and tumble off to the left side of it.
The driver of the Mini Cooper briefly stayed at the stop, but immediately fled the scene as soon as the light turned green.
No vehicles passing by seemed to stop to check on Miguel Velazquez, but one driver did follow the Mini for some time and got a partial plate number.
The driver in the Mini Cooper was described as a man in his 40s, possibly Indian or Hispanic. The vehicle was dark with a panoramic sunroof and potential damage to the front side of the car.
Velazquez says he made eye contact with the driver, who only seemed to be concerned for himself.
After being struck by the Mini, Velazquez sustained wrist fractures, an injured tailbone and bruising. He also said he missed several days of work as a restaurant server as a result of the crash.
Police are asking witnesses or anyone else who may have additional information to contact them at LAPD Central Traffic Detectives at 213-833-3713.
Liability In Los Angeles Car Accidents
Despite improved safety measures for cars, motor vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of serious injury and death in the United States. According to the CDC, “more than 32,000 people are killed and 2 million are injured each year from motor vehicle crashes.” There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to a car accident including:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Dangerous turns
- Poorly designed roadways
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid causing accidents. This is especially true for commercial drivers that work for a city. A number of collisions are due to drivers that make dangerous left turns. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21801, the driver of any vehicle intending to turn left must yield the right of way traveling from the opposite direction close enough to pose a hazard.
If a negligent driver worked for a city, that city could potentially be liable in the event of an accident. Generally speaking, employers are vicariously liable for the negligent actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. There are a number of steps that should be taken after a car accident.
- Photos of the accident site should be taken.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- A thorough independent investigation should be conducted.
The family of any victim that has died in a car accident may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. It is essential that evidence is properly preserved after a car accident. A car accident attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating Miguel Velazquez’s Moped Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our well wishes to Miguel Velazquez and hope for a speedy recovery. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about a Los Angeles car accident? Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that negligent drivers are held to account for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.