In the early hours of April 24, 2025, a devastating hit-and-run incident occurred near 5900 South and 300 West in Murray, Utah, involving two Utah Transit Authority (UTA) maintenance workers. The workers were transitioning a rail vehicle from rail mode to road mode when an eastbound Acura MDX failed to stop and struck the front of the rail vehicle, hitting the two employees. The driver, identified as Brandon Palma, 29, fled the scene on foot after briefly checking on the victims.
Victims’ Conditions
Both UTA employees sustained severe injuries:
- First Victim: Suffered a traumatic brain injury, fractured tibia and fibula, broken sternum, and a broken finger.
- Second Victim: Endured internal injuries, a broken arm, and was placed on a ventilator. Due to the extent of the injuries, doctors later amputated the victim’s leg.
Emergency crews transported both individuals to a nearby hospital for critical medical treatment. Their road to recovery is expected to be long and arduous, involving surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
Investigation and Arrest
A witness reported seeing Palma exit the damaged Acura, check briefly on the injured workers, and then flee on foot. Investigators found a cell phone left behind in the vehicle, which they used to identify Palma. Using license plate reader data, officers located the vehicle in a parking lot near 5935 South and 250 West. Palma’s girlfriend and her mother informed police that he had admitted to causing the crash and expressed a desire not to report it.
Later that day, Palma called detectives from his mother’s phone and agreed to surrender. He admitted to having a history of fleeing law enforcement and stated he did not have car insurance. Palma was booked into the Salt Lake County Metro Jail on two third-degree felony counts of failure to remain at the scene of an accident involving serious bodily injury, along with two misdemeanor traffic charges and a traffic infraction.
Impact on the Victims and Their Families
The consequences of the crash extend far beyond the physical injuries. Both victims face substantial emotional and psychological challenges as they adjust to their new realities:
- The victim with a traumatic brain injury may experience cognitive deficits, memory loss, mood swings, and the need for long-term neurological care.
- The victim who underwent a leg amputation must adapt to a permanent disability, which could involve prosthetics, physical therapy, and substantial emotional trauma related to loss of mobility and independence.
Their families also face emotional distress, financial hardship from medical expenses, and potentially the need to become full-time caregivers.
Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents in Utah
Under Utah law, drivers involved in an accident must immediately stop, render aid if necessary, and exchange information. Fleeing the scene of an accident, especially one resulting in serious bodily injury or death, is a third-degree felony.
Common Reasons Drivers Flee the Scene:
- Driving without a valid license or insurance.
- Fear of legal consequences, especially if under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Panic or shock following the crash.
- Outstanding warrants or previous criminal record.
None of these reasons excuse the behavior legally or ethically. Hit-and-run accidents are particularly devastating because they often delay emergency response to injured victims.
Legal Implications for the Driver
Brandon Palma faces serious charges, including:
- Failure to remain at an accident involving serious bodily injury (Third-degree felony)
- Driving without insurance
- Fleeing the scene
- Traffic violations
Conviction on these charges could result in:
- Up to five years in prison per felony charge.
- Heavy fines.
- Permanent criminal record.
- Civil liability for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and punitive damages.
Civil Remedies for Victims
In addition to the criminal case, the victims have the right to pursue civil claims against Palma for:
- Medical Bills: Including hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and future medical care.
- Lost Wages: If the victims are unable to return to work.
- Pain and Suffering: For the physical and emotional trauma endured.
- Punitive Damages: Designed to punish egregious conduct like fleeing the scene.
If Palma is uninsured or underinsured, the victims may also pursue claims under their own uninsured motorist coverage policies.
Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident
If you or a loved one is involved in a hit-and-run accident:
- Call 911 immediately: Report the accident and request medical assistance.
- Seek medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor.
- Document the scene: Take photos, record videos, and gather witness statements.
- Preserve evidence: Keep damaged clothing, medical records, and photographs.
- Consult a personal injury attorney: To ensure your rights are protected and you pursue appropriate compensation.
How Salt Lake Injury Law Can Assist
At Salt Lake Injury Law, we stand beside victims of negligent and reckless drivers. We offer:
- Free consultations: Discuss your case with no upfront costs.
- Thorough investigation: We collect evidence, interview witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts.
- Aggressive negotiation: We deal with insurance companies and opposing parties so you can focus on healing.
- Court representation: We are prepared to fight for you in court if necessary.
We operate on a contingency fee basis: You don’t pay unless we win your case.
Our goal is to maximize your compensation so you can access the medical care, financial security, and peace of mind you deserve.
Preventing Future Hit-and-Run Accidents
Communities can take proactive steps to prevent similar tragedies:
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Highlight the dangers and penalties associated with fleeing crash scenes.
- Enhanced Law Enforcement: Increased patrols in high-risk areas.
- Technological Improvements: Expanded use of surveillance cameras and license plate readers.
- Stronger Penalties: Harsher consequences for offenders.
Final Thoughts
The hit-and-run on 5900 South in Murray is a stark reminder of how reckless decisions can devastate lives in an instant. Two hardworking UTA employees suffered life-changing injuries because of another’s irresponsible behavior. As they embark on long and difficult recovery journeys, our community owes it to them to seek justice and accountability.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of a hit-and-run accident, contact Salt Lake Injury Law today. We are ready to stand by your side, guide you through the legal process, and fight tirelessly for your rights.
📞 Call Salt Lake Injury Law today at (385) 444-7545 for a free consultation or visit Salt Lake Injury Law to learn more.
Source: KMYU
Disclaimer:
This post is based on secondary sources and is intended solely for use by Salt Lake Injury Law PLLC. We have not independently verified the information from these sources. If you notice any inaccuracies, please contact us so we can make necessary corrections promptly.
At Salt Lake Injury Law, we aim to honor the victims of tragic accidents in Utah while educating the public on prevention and response strategies. This article is not intended as medical or legal advice. The images included are for illustrative purposes and do not depict the actual accident scene.