The Hawaii Star Advertiser reports that three people sustained serious personal injuries in a North Shore hit and run car accident. According to reports, a 31-year-old woman, a 35-year-old man, and a 63-year-old man were walking near the beach when the Waipahu man veered off the highway, striking at least two of the pedestrians. The 32-year-old driver then fled the scene, before being apprehended.
Drivers involved in hit-and-run accidents often face two separate legal actions. First, the law requires all individuals involved in accidents to stop and render aid as soon as is safe to do so. The failure to do is considered a crime and may subject drivers to penalties, including jail time. The young man has now been arrested and charged with driving under the influence, failing to stop and accidental injury.
Additionally – the man may be held responsible for harm caused as the result of his alleged reckless and negligent conduct. Individuals who drive and drink are considered to be "negligently operating" their vehicles and may be held responsible and be required to pay damages for injuries sustained as a result of such reckless conduct.
This area is notoriously dangerous. Last year, the state erected concrete barriers to deter pedestrians from crossing the street and to improve safety.
For more information or if you have been in any type of Hawaii car accident, including a hit-and-run or drunk driving accident, please contact the top Hawaii personal injury lawyers at Bostwick & Peterson, LLP for an immediate consultation.