Orange County Firefighter Suffers Catastrophic Injuries in Hit-and-Run

An off-duty Orange County firefighter who suffered injuries described as “near catastrophic” when he was struck and nearly killed by a hit-and-run driver last December, has filed suit against Laguna Beach. On Dec. 5, 2009, the 38-year-old firefighter and paramedic were crossing South Coast Highway at Brooks Street in a marked crosswalk when a vehicle struck him and fled the scene. The force of the impact threw the man 50 feet and resulted in head trauma, internal injuries, broken bones, and other injuries.

Witnesses told police that the vehicle was a white Toyota Corolla or Prius with California plates. As of April 2009, police had not yet found the hit-and-run driver or the vehicle involved in the accident. The former firefighter’s suit claims that the crosswalk at South Coast Highway and Brooks Street is dangerous due to inadequate lighting and lane marking and the crosswalk button, which was removed due to road construction on Coast Highway. He spent a week in the hospital for treatment and underwent surgical procedures to mend the broken bones, head trauma, and internal injuries. Upon release from the hospital, he spent several more weeks in a wheelchair and graduated recently to crutches. It is not yet known if his injuries will prevent him from regaining the physical strength needed to perform the duties of a fireman and paramedic.

Samer Habbas is a Long Beach catastrophic injuries lawyer who is dedicated to helping his clients and their families recover the compensation they deserve to defray the costs of medical care, physical rehabilitation, modifications to their homes, ongoing care, and other costs. Mr. Habbas is a Southern California catastrophic injuries attorney with many years of experience helping clients in what can be very complex legal cases. Clients can call 888.848.5084 to schedule a free consultation and receive a thorough explanation of the laws that apply to their situation.

Resource link: Orange County Firefighter Suffers Catastrophic Injuries in Hit-and-Run