Pennsylvania police recently arrested a 23-year-old man in connection with a tragedy that took place last fall. The man is facing multiple charges in connection with the fatal collision that took the life of a man who traveling in another vehicle at the time. Whether or not collisions lead to criminal charges, a recovering victim or immediate family member of a deceased victim may be entitled to legal recourse through the civil justice system.
Police say the man in question was driving at speeds exceeding the posted limit by approximately 25 mph. Although the man‘s vehicle was initially headed in a southbound direction, it careened over the line into oncoming traffic in the northbound lane. A 60-year-old man in the car that was struck died as a result of the injuries he suffered in the crash.
In addition to involuntary manslaughter, prosecutors have also charged the driver of the wrong-way vehicle with homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence of alcohol. He is currently being held in a county jail. If a family member of a deceased accident victim files a wrongful death claim in civil court, he or she may be able to use evidence gathered by the authorities in connection with the criminal proceedings.
When a fatal collision occurs in Pennsylvania, prompting litigation in civil court, the plaintiff who files a wrongful death claim is tasked with providing evidence to show that the death of his or her loved one was directly caused by the negligent or reckless conduct of the defendant. If the person believed responsible for the death has also died in the collision, a claim may be filed against his or her estate. An experienced personal injury law attorney can provide strong legal support throughout the litigation process.
