Fatal Hit-and-Run on Lakewood Avenue
Officials in Modesto reported a fatal hit-and-run bicycle accident on Lakewood Avenue between Orangeburg Avenue and Briggsmore Avenue on the night of Saturday, April 9, 2022. The traffic collision happened around 9:15 p.m. and was believed to have involved two vehicles.
Details on the Fatal Hit-and-Run on Lakewood Avenue in Modesto
According to the Modesto Police Department (Modesto PD), officers at the scene located the cyclist with serious injuries. Authorities and residents attempted life-saving measures on the injured party. Sadly, their efforts were unsuccessful as the cyclist did not survive their injuries. The decedent has been identified as Kenneth Earl Hutt, 62, of Modesto.
Witnesses to the fatal bicycle accident indicated that two vehicles may have been involved in the hit-and-run with the cyclist. These include a Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck and a Toyota pickup truck. Officials believe that both pickups were allegedly traveling southbound on Lakewood Avenue following the collision, and both reportedly made left-hand turns onto Orangeburg Avenue shortly after.
One of the vehicles is expected to have substantial damage to the front end and windshield. Authorities are working to locate witnesses to the hit-and-run accidents and residents in the area who may have surveillance cameras that recorded the incident or fleeing drivers. Anyone with information on the bicycle accident in Modesto is encouraged to reach out to the Stanislaus Area Crime Stoppers.
Things to Know About Wrongful Death Cases in California
When coping with the loss of a close relative, survivors must deal with a wide array of hardships all at once. This may include the shock of the loved one’s sudden absence, potential financial challenges without the decedent’s support, and emotional pain. For surviving family members, a wrongful death claim may be the least of their worries during this challenging time. However, delaying speaking with an attorney may do more harm than good in the long run. That is because there is a strict time limit set on these cases as outlined in the California Code of Civil Procedure Section 335.1. There is a two-year statute of limitations that applies to these claims. Conversely, it may be reduced to 180 days in those cases involving public entities.
Remember that evidence must be gathered and preserved as it may fade with time. That is because a wrongful death case is a civil case that must be proven through substantial clear, and compelling evidence. This is especially true in the case of a fatal hit-and-run accident as it must be demonstrated that the suspect vehicle made contact with the decedent, failure to remain at the scene, and the at-fault party’s lack of action for rendering care resulted in the loss of life. In situations where the other side cannot be located, it is essential to work with an accident attorney that has the resources to hire a private investigator to track them down and identify potential sources of liability coverage. If it has been determined that the negligent party has little to no insurance, the family of the decedent may have recourse.
Uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM and UIM) coverage is optional in California. However, carrying this type of protection is essential to protecting yourself and your loved ones in the event of a crash. UIM coverage may pay for losses up to the limits of the policy if the at-fault party has insufficient liability insurance. UM protection may cover damages caused by a driver without auto insurance. What is also great about UM coverage is that it may come into play in hit-and-run accident cases and provide protection. As previously mentioned, clear and compelling evidence must be presented to establish that the hit-and-run driver made contact with the other party and the incident was the direct result of the fatal injuries and damages incurred. For additional information on wrongful death matters, watch this video.
Wrongful Death Lawyer in Modesto
I’m Ed Smith, a Modesto wrongful death lawyer. The grief felt by surviving family members may be overwhelming when they experience the loss of a loved one in an accident that was preventable. If this has happened to your family, know that there is assistance available in your situation and is only a phone call away. Discuss your case in detail in a free consultation with one of our skilled and compassionate wrongful death attorneys at (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400. Our lawyers are available anytime to provide free, friendly advice on your case.
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At AutoAccident.com, our team of attorneys has helped survivors of those who have lost their lives because of the negligence of others. We understand that you may have questions about what steps to take next. Let us help you move forward and seek answers to your unanswered questions. Our legal team has over three decades of experience handling cases like yours, and our history of Settlements and Verdicts is a testament to our success.
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