The U.S. Department of Transportation estimated that more than 4,700 pedestrian lost their lives in traffic accidents or crashes in 2011. Sadly this statistic became a reality for one Hartford, Connecticut family recently.
According to Hartford police, a 38-year-old pedestrian lost his life recently when a car fatally struck him. The accident is still under investigation, but preliminary reports indicate that the victim had stopped to make some purchases from a store and was struck by a Chevy Blazer as he exited the store. Authorities indicated that the vehicle ran a red light before hitting the man. The accident occurred around nine o’clock at night.
Furthermore, reports claim the driver of the Chevy Blazer was intoxicated at the time of the accident. The 38-year-old man was transported to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead at the hospital. He left behind six children between the ages of one and 20.
It is impossible for many people to imagine the sudden loss of a loved one, particularly under such tragic circumstances. These events are incomprehensible. Most individuals know that when a life is lost, it cannot be resurrected or brought back to life. A family that has experienced the loss may not know what to do or who to approach, but they may want to search for answers obtain justice.
Though one may never find all the answers, if a negligent driver played a role in a car accident that killed another, then that driver may be held civilly liable for damages. As many people who drive know, all motorists have a responsibility to obey traffic laws, never drink and drive, and be attentive when behind the wheel. This means avoiding distracted driving and looking out for pedestrians. When there is a lapse in any of these areas and a fatal accident results, a bereaved family may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit and recover damages such a funeral and burial costs, pain and suffering, and future earnings. Working with a compassionate but competent personal injury law firm may be helpful during such difficult times.
Source: NBC Connecticut, “Father of 6 Struck and Killed in Hartford,” Mar. 9, 2015
