The New York metropolitan area teems with automobiles and pedestrians. While the common car accident can pose a serious risk to motorists, a single-vehicle crash involving pedestrians almost always result in severe injuries or death. When these tragedies occur, victims and their families may find themselves in a difficult position, struggling to recover and move on with their lives. A recent hit and run in the Bronx serves as a sad example.
Recently, in the early morning hours, a 22-year-old female pedestrian was struck by a car. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene. The motorist responsible for the accident fled the scene and police continue to investigate.
Unfortunately, accidents like this are far too common, and often leave victims with a serious injury, permanent disability, or brain injury. In the worst cases, like that in the Bronx, victims die. Those who receive injuries from these accidents face a long physical recovery that can be complicated by medical expenses. Families who lose a loved one to an accident may struggle to make ends meet and pay costs related to the accident. Fortunately, legal action can help victims and their families obtain compensation for their damages.
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To succeed on a lawsuit against a negligent driver, a victim or a surviving family member must prove the driver was negligent and the negligence resulted in compensable harm. Once these elements are established, victims and their families can receive awards to help cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and in the case of death, funeral costs and loss of consortium.
While a successful lawsuit allows surviving victims to obtain the quality care they need and deserve and deceased victims’ families to receive recoveries to help cover costs and move on in remembrance of their loved one, a lawsuit serves another important purpose. Filing a lawsuit against a drunk, negligent, or distracted driver sends a message that irresponsible driving will not be tolerated. Perhaps then motorists will think about their actions behind the wheel and how they affect those around them.
Source: CBS New York, “Bronx Hit-And-Run Leaves Woman Dead,” Dec. 29, 2012
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