Police in San Jose recently arrested two men – Manuel Ramirez Ramos, 46, and Juan Ahumada Solorzano, 50 – in connection with a hit-and-run collision that killed Maria Dolores Acosta de Reyes the morning of August 30, 2008. According to a Bay City News report, the fatal accident occurred near East Santa Clara and Seventh streets in downtown San Jose.

Hit-and-Run Suspects Apprehended

Police have apparently been investigating this case over the last two years. They first recovered a dark blue 1990s Toyota 4Runner, the car they say Ramos was driving when he struck the victim. Solorzano was the registered owner and brother-in-law of Ramos. Authorities say Solorzano helped Ramos hide the evidence. Both men have been arrested on suspicion of felony hit-and-run. Anyone with further information is asked to call police investigators at 408-277-4654.

My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved Maria Dolores Acosta de Reyes. I can only imagine the relief her family members must feel after these arrests. They will be in my thoughts and prayers. This case shows that hit-and-run victims must not give up hope too soon. I commend the San Jose Police Department for keeping this case alive and successfully making the arrests.

Laws and Liability Issues

Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious crime under California law. California Vehicle Code 20001 (a) states: "The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident."

Drivers who are involved in car accidents are required to stop at the scene, regardless of who is at fault. Motorists are required to exchange information with other parties such as address, insurance information and contact details, and also render aid to the injured victim. Drivers are required to do this regardless of whose fault the accident was. There are many cases where drivers who are not at fault get arrested because they fled the scene of the accident.

I trust officials are interviewing these two suspects to determine the circumstances of the crash. The victim's family would be well-advised to contact an experienced San Francisco personal injury lawyer, if they haven't done so already. A knowledgeable attorney will make sure that their legal rights are protected through the process and that they receive fair compensation for their loss.

Would you offer a tip about a hit-and-run collision to law enforcement if they cannot keep your information anonymous?

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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