A female pedestrian sustained injuries in a San Clemente car accident after she was struck by a suspected drunk driver. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the injury accident occurred at the intersection of Avenida Pico and El Camino Real the afternoon of May 14, 2010. The pedestrian was transported to a nearby hospital with injuries that are described as non-life-threatening. The driver did not stop at the scene. The vehicle is described as a Saab. So far, no one has been arrested.


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My heart goes out to this injured pedestrian. I'm relieved to hear that she did not sustain critical injuries. I wish her the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 2 deaths and 14 injuries involving pedestrian accidents in San Clemente. In Orange County as a whole, 31 people died and 785 were injured as a result of pedestrian accidents during the same year.

Violation of Laws

Based on this news report, not only was the driver under the influence, but he or she also left the scene of the crash. However, it is not clear how it was known that the driver was under the influence. If that was in fact the case, the driver could face criminal DUI and hit-and-run charges.

Driving under the influence is a serious crime under California law. According to California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a): "It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle." Leaving the scene of the accident is also a serious crime under California Vehicle Code section 20001 (a). I trust this hit-and-run suspect will soon be apprehended and brought to justice.

Claim for Compensation

It would be in the best interests of injured victims in these types of accidents to contact an experienced Orange County personal injury lawyer, who will stay on top of the official investigation and make sure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will also advise victims about how their own car insurance policy might apply to a hit-and-run crash or to a collision where the at-fault motorist is uninsured or underinsured. In such cases, injured victims could seek compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of earnings, cost of hospitalization, physical therapy and other related damages.

What are some of the most dangerous 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.

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