Fatality Accident on Elkhorn Boulevard May Have Involved Intoxicated Driver
Two pedestrians walking on a sidewalk were killed in Sacramento County on July 11 when an alleged intoxicated driver’s vehicle jumped the curb. The accident occurred along eastbound Elkhorn Boulevard near Hillsdale Boulevard in the Foothill Farms area at about 8:27 p.m., according to the incident report issued by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The female driver of a Honda Civic, believed to be in their teens or early 20s, was going east along Elkhorn when her vehicle veered off the roadway and struck a man and woman.
Pedestrians Die at Accident Scene Involving Reported Intoxicated Driver
Both pedestrians were declared dead at the accident scene. Officials have recently identified the decedents as Amy Brem and John Dynes. Their families have recently held a vigil in memory of their loved ones.
The vehicle driver was arrested for alleged DUI and was to be booked for the crime after they received a medical release. The accident is being investigated by the CHP traffic crash unit.
Watch YouTube Video – By: ABC10 – Families Hold Vigil for Victims Killed by Suspected DUI Driver
Filing a Wrongful Death Claim Involving an Impaired Driver
Families of pedestrians who have lost a loved one in an accident in California must provide evidence to file a wrongful death claim. If another’s negligence or wrongdoing causes a death, that person may be liable for damages. A pedestrian’s family may be entitled to compensation for their loss if he or she is killed in a traffic collision due to the negligence of an at-fault driver.
Contacting a Wrongful Death Lawyer
For a successful claim caused by an intoxicated driver, it is important to contact an experienced wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible following the accident. Evidence can be gathered with the help of a lawyer. In addition to police reports, witness statements, medical bills, and pictures of the accident scene, other relevant documents are gathered. The lawyer will also protect your legal rights and help you pursue a successful claim.
In a Wrongful Death Lawsuit, What Damages Are Recoverable?
A wrongful death action involving a pedestrian or other fatal accident can recover a variety of compensation, including:
- Expenses associated with funerals and burials can be recovered.
- A deceased individual’s future earnings, including pensions, insurance and other benefits, can be recovered.
- The deceased’s loss of guidance, protection and nurturing provided to the family’s children is recoverable.
- The surviving spouse may recover compensation for the loss of consortium, companionship and emotional support.
- Recoverable household services include cleaning or repairs provided by the deceased.
- Punitive damages may be awarded to an at-fault party who acted recklessly or maliciously, such as being an intoxicated driver. Your attorney can advise you whether your case might call for this type of award, which is meant as punishment for the at-fault party.
Wrongful death claims must be filed within a limited period of time. Close relatives such as spouses and children can file a claim on behalf of a deceased person or the estate administrator may. Parents and siblings may be entitled to file for the deceased if he or she did not have a spouse or children.
In the video that follows, attorney Ed Smith explains wrongful death:
Personal Injury Lawyer in Sacramento
I’m Ed Smith. I am a personal injury lawyer in Sacramento. When a motorist’s negligence causes the death of a loved one, a wrongful death claim may be possible for the surviving family members to recover compensation. Call (916) 921-6400 for free, friendly advice from one of our compassionate, experienced accident attorneys. Our toll-free number is (800) 404-5400. Alternatively, you can contact us online.
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Photo attribution: Image by Myriams-Fotos from Pixabay
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