Hit-and-Run Causes Traumatic Injuries to Teen

Date: October 25, 2012
Location: Southeast 110th Avenue and Division Street, Southeast Portland
Name: 18-year-old male

An 18-year-old male sustained traumatic injuries at around 10.30 pm on October 25 because of a hit-and-run in Southeast Portland.

The accident occurred when he was hit by a green sedan. Locals said that the area was dangerous for pedestrians, with many trying to cross the road at that point as the cross walks were far away.

Police have yet to determine the exact cause of the accident and have asked for anyone with information to come forward and share it.

Pedestrian safety takes a hit at this time of the year because of the rain and day light saving hour. Police have urges both pedestrians and drivers to be more alert to avoid such accidents.

We extend our sympathies to the family and friends of the injured man and hope he recovers quickly and completely from his injuries.

We hope the injured person is able to recover from this accident, and that the hit and run driver is held accountable. Hit and run drivers are cowards and criminals, and as Portland attorneys for hit and run injury victims we hope this driver is found soon. Remember, hit and run drivers can be punished in both criminal and civil cases.

According to Oregon law (ORS 811.705), drivers are required to remain at the scene if anyone is injured. If a driver does not do this, they can have criminal charges brought against them once they are found.

In cases like this, the hit and run driver can also have a civil lawsuit brought against them for all damages to the injury victim. Anyone injured by a hit and run driver has the right to seek legal recourse for injuries and damages to property. This compensation can come from the at-fault driver’s insurance or any personal assets they have.

In many cases, the hit and run driver left the scene because:

1)    They did not have insurance.

2)    They were driving intoxicated.

If the driver was driving intoxicated, you may still be able to file a claim with their insurance company, if you can identify the driver.

If you cannot find the driver, however, OR they do not have insurance, you can still file a claim through your own uninsured motorist (UIM) coverage on your own auto policy.

We understand that this is a complicated process, and we recommend discussing your case with a Portland hit and run accident attorney who offers free consultations if you have any questions.