Pennsylvania pedestrians are often at great risk for injury, especially if they are walking near traffic. Motorists must stay alert and watch for foot travelers, particularly at intersections or on roads where there are nearby bicycle paths. A recent tragedy occurred that caused fatal injuries to a pedestrian.
Police are still searching for the driver of a vehicle that is believed to have struck a 34-year-old man who was either on foot or riding a bicycle at the time. It was early on a recent Thursday morning when the crashed occurred. Sadly, the pedestrian was pronounced deadat the scene.
Investigators reportedly found an abandoned vehicle farther down the road from where the man had been struck. Police went to the home of the person who was registered as the owner of the vehicle, but she was not there. They have provided a number for anyone to call who may have information that might aid their investigation.
In the past, similar cases have led to litigation once police have located a hit-and-run driver. An immediate family member of a decedent can file a wrongful death claim against the person deemed responsible for his or her loved one’s death. When such a claim is filed, the plaintiff must prove to the court that the defendant was negligent and that his or her negligence was a direct cause of the fatality in question. Compensation awarded by the court for damages may be used to help cover funeral expenses or other costs associated with the incident, such as any medical treatment that might have been provided before the accident victim succumbed to his or her injuries.
