No matter where it is located, Arizona’s roadways can be dangerous. This is especially true when people are traveling on bike or foot near or on the roadways. Pedestrians are often at risk of harm because they are unable to move out of the way of an errant vehicle. Furthermore, a person may not be able to withstand the impact of a vehicle, especially if it is traveling fast. This is why it is important for drivers to always be aware of their surroundings and watch out for pedestrians traveling near or on the road.
Following a recent pedestrian accident, Phoenix police are still searching for a white full-size van they believe caused the fatal hit-and-run accident. According to preliminary reports, the auto-pedestrian accident occurred in the morning on West Indian Road near 38th Avenue when the van presumably failed to stop. It is not clear at this time if the vehicle went through a stop sign, red light or simply failed to yield to the 28-year-old pedestrian victim. Authorities are still trying to locate the driver responsible for the accident.
When a driver is negligent and causes a fatal accident, he or she could face criminal penalties, but that does little for the victim’s family. Instead, the deceased’s loved ones could file a wrongful death claim. This type of claim could help them obtain compensation which might be used to pay off medical bills, funeral costs and lost wages and help ease pain and suffering.
The loss of a loved one is a difficult event with which to deal and cope. In the case of a hit-and-run accident, it can be especially challenging because loved ones do not know who caused the death of their loved one. Those affected should seek guidance about their legal options because they might have a cause of action when the party at fault is located.
Source: San Francisco Gate, “Man killed in hit-and-run accident in Phoenix,” Mar. 4, 2014