San Francisco police are looking for hit-and-run drivers in connection with two different incidents that occurred over a period of three days. According to news reports, the most recent crash occurred the morning of July 31, 2010 at the intersection of Folsom and 19th streets in the city's Mission District. Police say a driver struck the pedestrian and then left the scene of the accident. The pedestrian died at the scene.

Another pedestrian accident occurred July 28, 2010 at the intersection of Golden Gate Avenue and Hyde Street, when a pedestrian was struck and critically injured while he was walking in a marked crosswalk. Officials say the pedestrian also had the green light at the time. The suspect vehicle is described as a newer model, silver four-door sedan, possibly an Oldsmobile.

I hope both these hit-and-run drivers are apprehended and brought to justice. I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased victim and pray that the critically injured victim makes it through his injuries and makes a full recovery.

Leaving the Scene of the Accident

Hit-and-run or leaving the scene of an accident is a serious crime under California Vehicle Code section 20001 (a). Failing to yield right-of-way to a pedestrian in a crosswalk is also a serious traffic violation. California Vehicle Code section 21950 states: "The driver of a vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian crossing the roadway within any marked crosswalk or within any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection." The same section also states that the driver of a vehicle approaching a pedestrian within any marked or unmarked crosswalk "shall exercise all due care and shall reduce the speed of a vehicle or take any other action relating to the operating of the vehicle as necessary to safeguard the safety of the pedestrian."

Claim for Compensation

In such cases, injured victims or their families would find it in their best interests to contact a reputed San Francisco personal injury lawyer, who will advise them about their legal rights and options. If a dangerous roadway condition caused or contributed to these accidents, the city could be held liable as well. Please remember that any wrongful death or personal injury claim against a California public entity must be filed within six months of the incident.

What are some of the most hazardous roadways for pedestrians in your city or neighborhood?

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.