A tragic hit-and-run occurred on Tuesday night, July 16, near Jamboree Road and Sea Vista Drive in Newport Beach, resulting in the death of a pedestrian. The incident took place around 9:40 p.m., but police have not disclosed the precise location. The cause of the crash is still being investigated.
The driver of a silver Toyota Camry fled the scene but was later apprehended by police at Jamboree and Santa Barbara Drive. The suspect, a 30-year-old man from Santa Ana, was arrested and charged with felony hit-and-run.
Authorities are seeking information from anyone who may have witnessed the collision. Contact Traffic Investigator Austin Laverty at 949-644-3747 or via email at alaverty@nbpd.org.
Legal Considerations in Hit-and-Run Cases
Hit-and-run accidents have serious legal consequences, both criminally and civilly. In California, fleeing the scene of an accident is a felony, carrying significant penalties including imprisonment. For victims and their families, it’s essential to understand that a civil lawsuit can be pursued concurrently with criminal proceedings, allowing them to seek compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
In the civil world, pursuing justice involves holding the responsible party accountable for their negligence and ensuring that victims receive adequate financial support for their recovery. Legal representation is crucial in these situations to navigate the complexities of the law and insurance claims. Additionally, victims should be aware of their rights regarding uninsured motorist coverage, which can provide essential compensation when the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance. This aspect is particularly important in hit-and-run cases where the liable party may not have sufficient coverage to meet the victim’s needs.
