San Leandro Golf Course Worker Ismael Hernandez Died In Hit-And-Run Collision With Stolen Pickup Truck Along Street Near Monarch Bay Golf Club
SAN LEANDRO, CALIFORNIA (April 24, 2022) – A golf course worker on a lawnmower identified as Ismael Hernandez has died in a San Leandro hit-and-run car accident.
Alameda County police officials are saying the accident took place around 4:15 p.m. on Monday. Ismael Hernandez was riding a lawnmower when he was rear-ended by a Dodge pickup truck.
The driver of the pickup truck fled the scene. They were in a stolen black Dodge Ram pickup truck and captured by police. Authorities have since charged the man believed to be responsible for the crash with negligent vehicular manslaughter and hit-and-run.
Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene of the collision. Despite life-saving measures, Ismael Hernandez died due to the severity of his injuries.
A full investigation into the crash remains ongoing at this time.
Liability In San Leandro Hit-And-Run Collisions
Thousands of people are killed or seriously injured in hit-and-run collisions every year. According to AAA, “In 2016, there were 1,980 fatal hit-and-run crashes resulting in 2,049 fatalities. This is the highest annual number of hit-and-run fatalities or crashes recorded since NHTSA began compiling statistics on fatal motor vehicle crashes in 1975.” There are many factors that could contribute to hit-and-run collisions.
- Speeding
- Drunk driving
- Drug use
- Inclement weather
- Dangerous turns
It is illegal to flee the scene of a collision that results in bodily injury or death pursuant to California Vehicle Code 20001. Drivers are supposed to stay at the scene of an accident causing injury and exchange insurance information with the affected party. Fleeing the scene of a collision carries heavy penalties including fines, jail time, a felony conviction and license revocation. A driver that injures someone and flees may also bear civil liability for the crash.
The person or entity that owned a stolen truck could also potentially face some liability for a collision. In general, the owners of stolen vehicles are not liable for crashes involving their stolen vehicle. But there are exceptions to this rule. A vehicle owner may be liable for an accident caused by a thief if “special circumstances” exist. See, for example, Archer v. Sybert, 167 Cal.App.3d 722 (Cal. Ct. App. 1985). There are a number of steps that should be taken after any hit-and-run car accident.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- Fragments of the fleeing vehicle should be sought.
The family of any victim that died in a collision may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim. Damages can help cover many of the expenses that can come with the sudden and tragic loss of a loved one. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating a San Leandro Hit-And-Run Car Accident
We at TorkLaw extend our deepest condolences to the family of Ismael Hernandez. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to police. It is our sincere hope that there is justice and accountability for what took place.
Do you need more information about a San Leandro hit-and-run car accident? Our team of consumer safety advocates are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (888) 441-4991.
