Fresno Man Killed After Hit and Run Accident
A man in a wheelchair was killed in a recent hit and run accident in Fresno, CA. The incident occurred around 6:30 p.m. near the intersection of McKinley Avenue and Brawley Avenue, just west of Highway 99. A man in a wheelchair was reportedly traveling along the edge of the northbound lanes of Brawley Avenue when he was hit by an oncoming vehicle, according to the Fresno Police Department. The car involved in the pedestrian accident did not stay at the scene to render aid to the injured man. Sadly, he was pronounced deceased on site by first responders. The Fresno County Coroner’s Office has identified him as 53-year-old Ronnie Rodriguez of Fresno.
Loss of a Loved One After a Fresno Hit and Run Accident
The sudden loss of a loved one in a hit and run accident can leave surviving family members devastated and unsure of what to do next. When a close relative passes away due to the recklessness or negligence of another person, survivors may be able to file a wrongful death claim on their loved one’s behalf. A compassionate and experienced wrongful death lawyer from Fresno can help the family through the claims process. These cases often result in challenging legal obstacles, and an experienced attorney can help a family overcome them to ensure they have the time to focus on healing from their loss and obtain the compensation they need.
How Are Wrongful Death Settlements Paid Out?
After a fatal hit and run accident, survivors may wonder who will pay for their damages if the driver is not found. Under these circumstances, a family may bring a claim through their loved one’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage for financial recovery. If the decedent did not have car insurance but lived with someone who does, this type of coverage may extend to them so long as they were not excluded from the policy. Payment for wrongful death damages include:
- Costs of end-of-life medical treatment incurred by the deceased before they passed away (this may be recovered through a survival action)
- Expenses for a family member’s funeral and burial services
- Loss of a loved one’s guidance, care, and protection
- Loss of future financial support and services from the decedent, based on their life expectancy, education, and income
- Punitive damages may be available in wrongful death pedestrian accidents involving egregious misconduct, like driving while impaired and excessive speeding
If you are interested in learning more about wrongful death cases, watch the video below for a brief overview.
Who is Entitled to Wrongful Death Damages?
In California, specific relatives are entitled to recover wrongful death damages. Generally, when the decedent is an adult, their surviving spouse, domestic partner, or children have the right to file a wrongful death claim. If such parties are nonexistent, other relatives may recover through a wrongful death action. This includes surviving parents, stepchildren, putative spouses, and children of the putative spouse.
How Long Can You Wait to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
As you may expect, there are time considerations involved with wrongful death claims. The statute of limitations, as outlined in the California Code of Civil Procedure Section 335.1, is two years from the date of a loved one’s wrongful death. If survivors fail to file for wrongful death by the statutory deadline, the courts may dismiss their case, and they may lose the right to recover compensation. This is why it is essential to work with a wrongful death lawyer from Fresno. A lawyer can ensure all applicable criteria and deadlines are met for your case while you focus on grieving and healing from your loss.
Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Fresno
I’m Ed Smith, a Fresno pedestrian accident lawyer. A wrongful death case for a pedestrian accident can be challenging to handle after a loved one’s death. If a tragic accident has claimed the life of your loved one, and you are considering filing a claim, contact an experienced attorney for invaluable guidance and assistance. You are welcome to call me anytime at (559) 377-7676 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400 to receive my free, friendly advice on what options you have for recovery.
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