Pedestrian Fatality Accident Under Investigation to Determine Fault
An investigation is ongoing into a pedestrian fatality accident that occurred in North Auburn on November 25. The accident happened along Bell Road close to Crossroads Shopping Center around 10:10 a.m., according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Officers reported that a young woman was heading west in her vehicle along Bell Road when she struck and killed a pedestrian who was walking along the shoulder.
Authorities Determining Fault in Pedestrian Fatality
Investigators are trying to determine whether the male pedestrian in his 30s stepped into the roadway or the driver drifted over onto the road’s shoulder, striking the man. Neither alcohol nor drugs are suspected as factors in the fatal crash. Although the name of the deceased pedestrian has not yet been released, he is thought to have been unhoused.
Losing a Loved One in a Pedestrian Fatality Accident
It’s always shocking when family members receive word that a loved one has died in a traffic accident. At first, they are consumed with grief. A little later, they wonder how the pedestrian fatality accident occurred and whether it ever should have happened. Finally, they find themselves facing financial distress when they discover the high cost of end-of-life expenses and other losses, especially if their loved one helped support the family.
By filing a claim for wrongful death, the family cannot only avoid the financial repercussions, but they may also recover a sense of justice for their loved one’s loss that the negligent party is being held responsible for their actions. In addition, recovering financial damages can help teach a lesson to others who might be tempted to avoid responsibility.
Recovering Damages by Filing a Wrongful Death Claim
In California, families who have lost loved ones due to wrongful death can recover compensation for their loss. The family members of the deceased may be able to recover various types of compensation, including funeral and burial costs, pain and suffering and loss of financial support or earnings. Additionally, they may be able to recover damages related to the emotional distress and mental anguish caused by the death, including loss of consortium.
The surviving family members of the deceased can choose to pursue compensation through a wrongful death lawsuit, which is a civil action filed against the negligent party responsible for their loved one’s demise. In California, this type of lawsuit must be brought by either a personal representative of the deceased’s estate or by the family. The personal representative will be appointed by the court and is responsible for representing all of the heirs to the deceased’s estate in any legal matters.
Seeking Legal Advice
When filing a wrongful death lawsuit, it is important to consult with an accident attorney who can help guide you through the process and ensure that you receive the maximum amount of compensation possible. An attorney can assist in evaluating potential damages, preparing legal documents, and representing your case at trial or during settlement negotiations.
Auburn Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, an Auburn personal injury lawyer. An attorney can assist you in proving fault and obtaining compensation for the grieving family in cases involving pedestrian fatalities. If you’d like some free and friendly advice, you can reach us at (530) 392-9400 or (800) 404-5400. If you would like to discuss the details of your case with us over the phone or at our office, we can schedule a free consultation. Please feel free to contact us online if you prefer.
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Photo attribution: Image by Andreas Lischka from Pixabay
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