California Car Accident Reports

Matthew Brian Ramirez, 20, was killed in a hit-and-run San Bernardino car accident early morning August 24, 2009, the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin reports. Ramirez was found in the southbound lanes of Haven Avenue near Wilson Avenue in Rancho Cucamonga, San Bernardino Sheriff's officials said. Ramirez had apparently been at a pool party earlier that day. He was hit by a vehicle when walking home after getting in an argument with some people at the party, police said. Ramirez was hit by a 2002 to 2004 gray or silver Toyota Camry or Solara based on the debris left at the scene. The driver of the car did not stop. If you have information about this fatal hit-and-run, please call 909-477-2800.

My heart goes out to the family and friends of Matthew Brian Ramirez for their tragic, heartbreaking and untimely loss. I offer my deepest condolences to them. Please keep them in your prayers.

San Bernardino Pedestrian Accident Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol's 2007 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) four fatalities and 26 injuries were reported in Rancho Cucamonga as a result of pedestrian accidents. In San Bernardino County, 50 deaths and 432 injuries happened in 2007 involving pedestrian accidents.

At the moment, with regard to this particular case, there seem to be more questions than answers. Was the driver of the Toyota that hit Ramirez a member of the pool party who had gotten in a fight earlier with Ramirez? If it was an unconnected incident, was the driver of the car at fault for the accident? Was Ramirez walking in a crosswalk, intersection or sidewalk at the time? Was the driver intoxicated, distracted or otherwise negligent? The answers to these questions will help determine who is liable for this accident and resulting fatal injuries.

California law requires motorists to remain at the scene of the accident irrespective of whose fault the accident was. California Vehicle Code section 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."

Contacting a California Personal Injury Lawyer

Ramirez's family would be well-advised to consult with an experienced California personal injury lawyer, who will analyze all aspects of this car accident, identify the negligent parties and hold them accountable. In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased car accident victims may file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation to cover funeral expenses, loss of earnings, loss of love and companionship and other related damages.