[CRASH NEWS] Man Killed in Chatsworth Hit-and-Run Collision Identified
CHATSWORTH, CA – Authorities have identified the man who was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver while walking in a Chatsworth intersection. The victim has been identified as 67-year-old male.
According to a report from MyNewsLA.com, the fatal collision occurred at the intersection of De Soto Avenue and Vintage Street. Mr. Mendelsohn was in a crosswalk when he was hit by a vehicle that immediately fled the scene. He was tragically pronounced dead before he could be transported to a hospital.
Los Angeles police are actively searching for the driver and are asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspect vehicle, described as a light-colored sedan that likely has front-end damage.
Legal Analysis: Seeking Justice After a Hit-and-Run Accident
A hit-and-run is not just a tragic accident; it is a cowardly and criminal act. For the family of the victim, the grief is compounded by the anger and frustration of knowing the responsible person fled the scene. While the police search for the driver, the family has immediate legal options to secure financial stability and seek justice.
In a situation like this, the primary source of recovery is often the victim’s own auto insurance policy, specifically the Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. This is a critical but often misunderstood part of every California auto policy.
- How Uninsured Motorist Coverage Works: A hit-and-run driver is treated by the law as an uninsured motorist. Your UM coverage steps into the shoes of the at-fault driver’s insurance and provides a source of compensation for your damages. This is why we always advise clients to carry the highest UM limits they can afford.
- Filing a Wrongful Death Claim: For the surviving family members, a wrongful death claim can be filed against their own UM policy. This claim seeks to recover damages for the loss of the victim’s financial support, funeral expenses, and the profound, non-economic loss of love and companionship.
- The Importance of a Swift Investigation: While pursuing a UM claim, it is essential to conduct an independent investigation to identify the hit-and-run driver. If the driver is found, a direct lawsuit can be filed against them. An experienced pedestrian accident attorney will immediately canvas the area for surveillance footage and witnesses to aid in the search.
Whether the victim was a pedestrian, a bicyclist, or the driver of another vehicle in a car accident, a hit-and-run adds a layer of complexity to an already devastating situation. It is vital to have a legal advocate who knows how to navigate the intricacies of UM claims and can fight to hold all responsible parties accountable.
Contact Manoukian Law for a free and confidential consultation.
