Officer Hit, Injured by Vehicle on Chicago Avenue in Hemet; Richard Steward Arrested

One Injured, Richard Steward Arrested in Hemet Pedestrian Crash on Chicago Avenue

Hemet, California (February 25, 2020) – A police officer was on Monday evening injured after an auto-pedestrian accident in Hemet, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The accident occurred at about 5:10 p.m., on February 24, on Chicago Avenue near the intersection of Ballew Way in an unincorporated area of Hemet.

The CHP officer pulled over a Volkswagen Passat driven by Richard Steward, 41, of Riverside. Steward then drove away from the police officer knocking down the officer with his vehicle in the process.

The police officer was taken to a local hospital where they were treated for minor injuries and released.

Steward was later arrested by the Sheriff’s Department near Mayflower Street and Florida Avenue on suspicion of driving under the influence and assault with a deadly weapon.

The crash remains under investigation.

What to Do at the Accident Scene after Crash

1. Always remain at the scene, relax and don’t panic.
2. Check if you, your passengers or any other party have injuries and then call an ambulance.
3. Call the police to document the incident
4. Take photos of the crash scene
5. If involved in a minor crash, move the car to the side of the roadway and turn on its hazard lights
6. Collect details regarding the accident from the witnesses
7. Don’t sign any documents unless it is from the authorities
8. Wait for the police to arrive before you can leave the accident scene

What to Do After Leaving the Accident Scene

1. Contact your insurance company and inform them about the crash
2. Collect a police report
3. Keep records of your physical injuries and mental condition
4. Get a property damage evaluation
5. Before providing any statements to the other motorist or his or her insurance company, seek a personal injury attorney to advise you legally and protect your rights

“A person on foot is no match for a large, multi-ton vehicle. Pedestrians have virtually no protection when they are hit by cars, motorcycles, trucks, and other vehicles” Managing Partner and CEO Alpine Law Group, Mr. Arin Khodaverdian, believes. “Sadly, this often leads to catastrophic injuries including temporary or lifelong disability, severe disfigurement, severe physical and emotional pain, and/or death.” He adds.