Teen Cyclist Injured in Seattle Hit-and-Run Crash

By Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. on July 22, 2013

A 15-year-old boy was seriously injured in a Seattle car accident involving a driver that left the scene of the crash. According to a KOMO news report, the hit-and-run accident occurred on Martin Luther King Jr. Way South near Walden Street in South Seattle. Officials say the boy and his brother were crossing the street at the intersection when a southbound dark gray Honda struck him. The boy suffered a life-threatening head injury. The driver failed to stop to render aid or exchange information. Investigators are searching for a Honda with a missing driver’s side mirror and a broken front headlight assembly.

According to Washington Statute 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.”

When the authorities are able to track down a driver for leaving the scene of a crash, the injured victim may hold him or her liable for the accident through civil litigation. Unfortunately, not all hit-and-run drivers are apprehended. When a driver is not found, the victim may still pursue compensation with the help of an experienced car accident attorney.

A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer will stay abreast of an official investigation to make sure that the at-fault party is held accountable for the crash. If the victim of a hit-and-run accident had uninsured motorist coverage, it may be possible to receive support from his or her own insurance policy when the hit-and-run driver is not apprehended.

There are a number of legal options available for victims of Seattle bike hit and run accidents. At Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. we offer free consultations to anyone who has suffered a loss in a Seattle crash at (888) 228-3860. Please call our offices to discuss what options may be available for you and your family.