Families in Phoenix often choose to live in residential neighborhoods for their curb appeal and safety for their children. Oftentimes, children will be seen playing outside and enjoying the weather by riding their bikes, playing basketball or enjoying other outdoor games. Although this is a great way for children to get fresh air and exercise, parents should also be aware of residential and commercial vehicles traveling around the neighborhood. Even if parents are aware of potential dangers and teach their children how to be safe around vehicles, a serious auto-pedestrian accident could occur.
A tragic accident recently occurred and resulted in the death of a 7-year-old boy. According to preliminary reports, the young boy was riding his scooter in a Phoenix neighborhood near 17th Street and Broadway. On this sunny day, the young boy and several other kids were playing outside.
The young boy and other kids were racing across the street on bikes and scooters. When the young boy was racing across the street, he was struck by a pickup truck that was traveling north on 17th Street. The driver stopped the vehicle and attempted to help the young boy.
Emergency crews arrived at the scene and transported the boy to the hospital, where he later died. The investigation of the fatal pedestrian accident is still ongoing and no charges have been filed at this time. Authorities are still not sure how fast the boy was going, how fast the driver was traveling and whether there was enough time for the driver to react and avoid the collision.
Once the investigation is complete, the loved ones of the deceased boy could have enough information to determine whether a civil lawsuit is possible. They might be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit in order to recover expenses for medical bills, funeral costs and pain and suffering.
Losing a loved one, especially a young child, can be a very difficult and life-changing event. The coping process alone could cause an extreme hardship in their lives. This is why it is important to understand whether or not a cause of action exists because this could help with emotional and financial hardships.
Source: My Fox Phoenix, “Boy killed in South Phoenix accident,” Nicole Garcia, Feb. 16, 2014