Los Angeles, CA — Most people would think that you need to act to commit a crime, but there are certain circumstances in which failure to act can lead to criminal charges. For example, failing to provide for the needs of a child or pet is a crime. Likewise, a hit-and-run driver, one who fails to stop after an accident to exchange insurance information and offer assistance to an injured party can face prosecution.
Street Racing Accident in Chatsworth
Three people were struck by a car earlier Thursday morning during what police suspect was an illegal street race in Chatsworth. According to a spokesman for the Los Angeles Police Department, a modified Ford Mustang was driving down Plummer Street, near a business park, when the driver lost control of the vehicle and drove into a crowd of spectators, who dispersed before officers arrived on the scene. The driver of the Mustang also fled.
One of the people who was hit by the car died at the scene of the accident, and the two others were taken to the hospital where one of them died. All three were men in the early-to-mid-twenties. It is also believed that the driver is man in his twenties. According to police fresh tire skid marks indicate that street racing was occurring in the area, but it is not currently known if the driver of the Mustang was racing against another driver. Workers at the nearby office park have confirmed that street racing is not uncommon.
About Hit-and-Run Charges
When a hit-and-run accident causes severe injury or loss of life, it can lead to felony charges and a lengthy prison sentence. If you are involved in a car accident and do not stop, you can be charged with a hit-and-run. But there are successful courtroom strategies for having hit-and-run charges reduced or dismissed.
Is street racing legal in California?
Under state law, street racing is a violation that could land you in jail. It's not just a traffic offense. If you are convicted of street racing in Orange County, for example, you can be sentenced to spend between 24 hours and 90 days in jail. You may be fined $1,000 to pay for towing and storage of your vehicle. Your vehicle may be impounded for 30 days or more. If you can't pay the fees, your car could be sold at auction. These penalties aren't reserved only for the drivers! If you are caught aiding or abetting a street race, such as if you help organize it, stand as a lookout or even simply watch it, you could be sentenced to spend up to 90 days in jail. And that's even when nobody gets hurt!
At the the Law Office of Michael L. Guisti, we’ve been helping clients fight hit-and-run and other charges for over 16 years. Our attorneys are eager to put their years of training and experience to work for you in Southern California’s state and federal courtrooms. No matter what charges you’re up against, our passionate legal professionals can help you build the best possible defense.
Facing criminal charges can be extremely daunting. In addition to the possible negative consequences that might result from a conviction, you’ll also be facing the stigma that comes with even being suspected of a crime. Our compassionate and friendly staff will be on hand to answer your questions and help you through this difficult time.
Bloom, Tracy and Jennifer Gould. “Car Plows Into 3 Pedestrians, Killing 2 During Chatsworth Street Race, Police Say; Hit-and-Run Driver Sought.” http://ktla.com/2015/02/26/1-dead-2-critically-injured-after-vehicle-crashes-in-chatsworth/. 26 February 2015.
Branson-Potts, Hailey and Joseph Serna. “2 spectators killed after Mustang plows into crowd in L.A. street race.” http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-spectators-chatsworth-fatalities-20150226-story.html.
