A woman who sustained fatal injuries in an Oakland car accident the afternoon of February 9, 2010 has been identified by officials as 45-year-old Italy Batchelor. CBS News reports that the fatal pedestrian accident occurred at the intersection of Eighth Street and Mandela Parkway. The driver did not stop and was last seen fleeing east on Eighth. Police say the hit-and-run vehicle was a newer model dark blue or black car, possibly a Lexus with front end damage. Batchelor was pronounced dead at the scene.

My heart goes out to the family and friends of Italy Batchelor for their devastating loss. I offer my deepest sympathies to everyone who knew and loved this woman. This family will be in my prayers.

Pedestrian Accidents

According to California Highway Patrol's 2007 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were four fatalities and 250 injuries involving pedestrian accidents in Oakland. Countywide, 18 deaths and 591 injuries were reported as a result of pedestrian accidents during the same year.

Laws and Liability Issues

I hope police apprehend this hit-and-run driver who also appears to have failed to yield right-of-way to the pedestrian. According to officials, Batchelor was walking legally in a marked crosswalk. Leaving the scene of an accident is also a serious violation of California law.

Batchelor's family would be well-advised to consult a reputed Oakland personal injury lawyer, who has experience and an excellent track record holding negligent drivers accountable. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will also be able to determine whether a dangerous roadway condition may have caused or contributed to this accident. If that was the case, the governmental agency responsible for maintaining that roadway could also be held liable. A skilled injury lawyer will also be able to advise victims and their families about how their car insurance policy applies to an accident involving a hit-and-run driver or in an incident that involves an uninsured or underinsured driver.

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

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