California requires that drivers stop at the scene of an accident that involves property damage or an accident that involves injury or death. If the driver has had a few drinks, it may be tempting to leave the scene. However, this is the worst thing that a driver can do. Leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage is a misdemeanor. Leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or death is a felony. When a DUI is combined with hit-and-run charges, the driver will face both charges relating to the DUI and the hit-and-run. The DUI charges can also be upgraded to a felony if the injuries are severe enough or a person is killed.
KTLA reports that a driver suspected of DUI has been arrested following a hit-and-run accident in Reseda.
The accident occurred at about 6:55 P.M. Monday at Hart Street near Tampa Avenue in Reseda, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
The victim was only identified as a female in her late 30s. She was attempting to cross Tampa Street and was struck by a vehicle that was heading north. The driver did not stop, but bystanders were able to get him to stop further down the street.
Shortly after arriving at the hospital, the victim succumbed to her injuries.
Officers were seen giving the driver who fatally struck the victim a field sobriety test. They then placed him in handcuffs and put him in the back of a police vehicle.
The status of the collision, including who had the right of way based on traffic lights, is still under investigation. Neither the name of the driver nor the victim was released.
