Around 5 am on Thursday, December 5, 2024, a fatal collision between a car and a jogger occurred, leaving the jogger, Michael Casey Ellis, dead at the scene. The accident occurred in the 4500 block of Nimitz Boulevard in Point Loma, San Diego.
Just before the accident, Ellis was jogging heading west on Point Loma Boulevard, as he crossed Nimitz Boulevard a BMW sedan, traveling south on Nimitz Boulevard struck him. A witness called 911 as the BMW did not stop at the scene to render aid. When authorities arrived on the scene Ellis was pronounced dead by paramedics.
The Dangers of Vehicle vs Pedestrian Accidents in San Diego
Vehicle vs pedestrian collisions are among the most severe types of crashes that occur due to the vulnerability of pedestrians. Pedestrians lack the physical protection afforded to vehicle occupants, and thus are much more likely to suffer fatal injuries, especially in a collision with a vehicle.
Intersections, even those with clear signage and signals, are hotspots for these types of tragic incidents. Some common causes of vehicle vs pedestrian accidents include:
- Distracted driving: if a driver is engaging in distracting activities, such as using their phone, eating, or talking to passengers, among other activities, they may fail to notice pedestrians crossing the road
- Speeding: if a driver is traveling at excessive speed their reaction time is reduced should they need to stop quickly
- Low visibility: factors that contribute to poor lighting conditions such as the early morning or late night, weather such as fog or rain, can make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians
- Driving under the influence: Alcohol or drug impairment can significantly impair a driver’s ability to react and make safe decisions
Each of these factors, and more, can contribute to tragic outcomes like the one involving Michael Casey Ellis, unfortunately, in the incident that killed Mr. Ellis, the driver fled the scene, making the incident a fatal hit and run. Some reasons a driver may flee the scene include:
- Fear of legal consequences
- Driving under the influence
- Unlicensed drivers
- Outstanding warrants
- Lack of insurance
- And more
“Accidents like the one that caused the death of Michael Casey Ellis highlight the devastating consequences of negligent or reckless driving, especially when the driver flees the scene,” says Attorney Brett Schreiber of Singleton Schreiber, “Every pedestrian deserves to feel safe walking or jogging in their community. Our hearts go out to the Ellis family and we trust the San Diego Police Department will do everything possible to find and hold accountable the responsible driver.”
Legal Options for the Victim’s Family
After a fatal hit-and-run accident, the victim’s family may be left with medical bills, lost income, funeral and burial expenses, and more. If the responsible driver can be found and identified, the victim’s family may be able to file a wrongful death claim to obtain compensation for their losses.
If you’ve lost a loved one in a hit-and-run accident, contact Singleton Schreiber today to learn more about your options. Call us at (619) 771-3473 or email info@singletonschreiber.com to get started today and schedule your free consultation.
