Hit-and-Run Accident Fatally Injures Two Near Visalia
A group of friends were driving together near Visalia during the early morning hours of Monday, November 13, 2017. Unfortunately, this would be the last trip the friends would take together when a hit-and-run driver collided with their vehicle.
Our sincerest condolences are with the loved ones of Michelle Roberts and Matthew Shipley who passed away in this senseless tragedy.
What Happened?
A woman was driving her Subaru SUV southbound along Highway 99 near Visalia at about 1:00 am. The woman was traveling in her Subaru with a group of friends and three dogs at the time. For unknown reasons, an SUV side-swiped the Subaru, causing the Subaru to lose control. The woman veered the Subaru to avoid the median which caused her vehicle to overturn multiple times. The SUV allegedly continued driving, failing to render aid to those who were injured.
Nature of Injuries
Two of the vehicle occupants inside the Subaru, unfortunately, succumbed to their injuries at the scene. Officials identified the victims as Michelle Roberts and Matthew Shipley.
Hit-and-Run Vehicle Description
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) indicated that the suspect SUV previously discussed above was reported to be involved in another hit-and-run accident. The vehicle was described as a green SUV, likely to be a GMC or Chevrolet. The suspect vehicle and its driver have not yet been located.
Loved Ones Forever Remembered
Michelle Roberts and Matthew Shipley were both originally from Tennessee but recently moved to California. Roberts was a resident of the Bay Area and Shipley had just moved to Woodlake. The accident has left those who loved Roberts and Shipley devastated and heartbroken. Roberts was a genuine, kindhearted person who lived life to the fullest. Shipley was a beloved member of his family who would go out of his way to help anyone in need. A GoFundMe account has been set up for both parties to cover the expenses of their funerals.
Hit-and-Run Accidents
If a party has been involved in a car accident, they are obligated to remain at the scene to properly exchange information with other involved parties and/or wait for the arrival of officials. If a motorist fails to remain at the scene and injuries or death incurred, they may be eventually charged with a felony hit-and-run offense as well as other serious charges. These senseless actions tend to occur due to:
- A Warrant for a Driver’s Arrest
- Drunk Driving
- Lack of Automobile Insurance
Damages Recoverable from Wrongful Death Claims
Certain surviving members of a deceased party are entitled to compensation related to the loss of their loved one. The recoverable damages are as follows:
- Funeral and Burial Expenses
- Medical Expenses Incurred Prior to Death
- Loss of Affection, Comfort, Companionship and Moral Support
- Loss of Future Financial Assistance
- Punitive Damages, if the Party Suffered Fatal Injuries due to a Felony Homicide
Consulting with an experienced Fresno wrongful death lawyer is critical in a fatal hit-and-run accident. A seasoned attorney will independently investigate the case and study the sequence of events leading up to the crash to shed light and bring the negligent party to justice.
Similar Content by Edward A Smith:
Fresno Wrongful Death Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Fresno wrongful death lawyer. Hit-and-run accidents are difficult experiences to undergo. If someone close to you has suffered fatal injuries in an accident caused by a hit-and-run party, please call me at (559) 377-7676 for free, friendly advice. Or, I may be contacted toll-free at (800) 404-5400.
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