Police Still Seeking Witnesses of Seattle Hit-and-Run Crash

By Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. on October 17, 2013

A 40-year-old pedestrian was seriously injured after a vehicle struck him in the 9200 block of Rainier Avenue South, The Seattle Times reports. Police say that a vehicle struck the pedestrian and took off without rendering aid. The pedestrian was transported to Harborview Medical Center with potentially life threatening injuries. So far, police have been unable to find any witnesses to the collision. The investigation is ongoing.

Leaving the scene of an injury car accident is a crime under Washington State Law. According to RCW 46.52.020, “A driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting in the injury to or death of any person or involving striking the body of a deceased person shall immediately stop such vehicle at the scene of such accident or as close thereto as possible but shall then forthwith return to, and in every event remain at, the scene of such accident.”

Victims of hit-and-run crashes are often faced with significant damages, including medical expenses and wages lost as a result of missed work. In cases where the hit-and-run driver is not found, there is no person or entity to hold accountable. So, victims end up bearing the brunt of the incident’s consequences.

Injured victims of hit-and-run accidents would be well advised to contact an experienced Seattle car accident lawyer who will stay on top of the official investigation and ensure that their legal rights are protected. Injured hit-and-run car accident victims may also be able to seek compensation from the uninsured motorist clause of their own auto insurance policies. A knowledgeable injury attorney will be able to guide victims and their families during these challenging times.