Fatal Pedestrian Hit-and-Run on Stockton’s Interstate 5

Fatal Pedestrian Hit-and-Run Occurs on Highway

A fatal pedestrian hit-and-run occurred recently on Interstate 5 in Stockton, resulting in the death of one individual. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the incident occurred at approximately 12:20 a.m. near the Charter Way exit. The incident unfolded when a northbound vehicle struck a pedestrian who had unexpectedly entered the southbound lanes and then attempted to cross the northbound lanes. 

Investigation to Locate Fatal Pedestrian Hit-and-Run Driver

The collision occurred in the number two lane, and the driver fled the scene without offering assistance. The pedestrian, whose age and gender remain undisclosed, was pronounced dead on-site. Authorities have yet to identify the vehicle but report that it will have broken headlights and potential damage to the front bumper and hood. CHP traffic accident investigators urge anyone with information about the hit-and-run to contact them at (209) 938-4800.

Filing Wrongful Death Claims

Wrongful death claims are legal actions conducted by family members or representatives of someone whose death occurred because of negligent, reckless, or intentional actions of another party. These claims seek compensation for the losses incurred as a result of the death, which can include financial support, emotional distress, and funeral expenses. The primary goal of a claim for wrongful death after a fatal pedestrian hit-and-run is to provide the family with a means of financial recovery and hold the responsible party accountable for their actions.

Finding a Driver Who Fled the Scene of an Accident

In the unfortunate event of a fatal pedestrian hit-and-run accident, locating the driver who fled the scene is both crucial and challenging. The first step is to gather as much information as possible about the vehicle involved, such as the make, model, color, and, if possible, the license plate number. Witnesses can play a vital role; therefore, seeking assistance from onlookers to collect their observations and any photos or videos they might have taken can provide valuable leads. 

Reporting the incident to the police promptly is essential, as law enforcement can utilize resources like traffic camera footage, local registration databases, and public appeals to identify the responsible driver. Additionally, spreading the word through social media platforms can engage the community in helping to track down the vehicle involved in the accident.

Using Insurance to Recover Compensation in a Hit-and-Run Crash

The first step after any such incident is to report the pedestrian collision to the police and your insurance provider as soon as possible. This creates an official record that is crucial for any insurance claim. Uninsured motorist coverage can be used if the driver isn’t located. Filing a claim under this coverage can help cover medical expenses, property damage, and other related losses. 

Check out the video below to hear accident attorney Ed Smith explain about wrongful death lawsuits:

Stockton Wrongful Death Lawyer

I’m Ed Smith, a Stockton wrongful death lawyer. If a negligent driver has caused the death of your loved one in a pedestrian accident, reach out to us at (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400 for free and friendly advice on pursuing a wrongful death claim. You can also contact us online at your convenience. We offer a free case evaluation with one of our experienced accident lawyers, available virtually or in person, giving you the opportunity to ask questions and understand the potential for obtaining compensation for your family.

For testimonials about our law firm, visit our profiles on Avvo, Yelp, and Google, and check our Settlements & Verdicts to see how we have helped others. We are proud members of the Million Dollar Advocates and the Top 1 Percent, underscoring our commitment to achieving the highest possible compensation for our clients.

Photo attribution: Image by Myriams-Fotos from Pixabay

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