Driver Sought by Authorities Following Hit-and-Run Fatality Accident
The identity of a hit-and-run fatality involving a pedestrian that occurred in South Sacramento on July 8 has been released as a female, age 16. The incident report by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) stated that the accident occurred around 10:22 p.m. as the teen was walking south across Florin Road at the intersection with Fawn Way. Once the pedestrian crossed the traffic heading west, she began to walk across the lanes going eastbound.
Pedestrian Struck When Crossing the Street
This was when Jones was struck by a vehicle. Although one vehicle stopped to allow her to cross, another car that was going at a speed of around 40 mph struck her on Florin Road. The driver of the vehicle that struck Jones kept going along Florin Road.
Additional Information About the Hit-and-Run Fatality Accident
The vehicle, according to police, is thought to be a gray Mercedes C Class vehicle that was manufactured between 2002 and 2004. Jones was transported by personnel with the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire Department to a hospital. Unfortunately, she died there.
Police Seek Public’s Help in Locating Driver Who Caused the Hit-and-Run Fatality
Help is being sought by the CHP to locate the vehicle and driver who caused the hit-and-run fatality. Those with information are encouraged to contact Officer Thrush with the South Sac CHP at (916) 897-5600 or call Crime Stoppers at (916) 443-HELP (4357).
Hit-and-Run Accidents
Despite laws that penalize fleeing an accident scene, such behavior continues to occur at an increasing rate. There are several reasons why this is happening:
- Drunk driving: A driver may be intoxicated and fear being prosecuted if a blood alcohol test is administered. Rather than facing the consequences, many intoxicated drivers flee the scene.
- Drugged driving: For similar reasons, a driver who has used illegal drugs and chose to drive will flee the accident site.
- Warrants: Some drivers have warrants against them and know that when their driver’s license is checked at the accident site, police will become aware of them. They flee the scene rather than risk arrest.
- Lack of driver’s license: Unfortunately, many people lack a driver’s license in California. This is a common reason for a driver to flee an accident.
- Lack of insurance: Similarly, a driver who does not have auto insurance, as required by law, will leave the accident site.
- Panic: Some people panic when they are involved in a car accident, even if it is their fault. They will run from the accident scene, although many return or go to the police station once they have calmed down.
Finding a Hit-and-Run Driver
Our firm works along with law enforcement to find a hit-and-run driver. We send our investigators to the scene to do the following:
- Search the site to look for identifying evidence such as paint smears or pieces of the vehicle.
- Talk to witnesses to see if they saw the driver or know the vehicle’s make and model.
- Question everyone as to the license plate number. Even a portion of the number can be used to identify the vehicle.
- Check traffic surveillance cameras for pictures of the fleeing vehicle.
- Question people in the area to establish an ID.
Wrongful Death Lawsuit
An attorney can also help the family by filing a wrongful death lawsuit. Their loved ones can no longer fight for the justice they deserve, but family members can. The wrongful death claim will also help the family cope monetarily after losing their loved one’s support.
What Damages Are Covered by a Wrongful Death Claim
The following damages are compensated by a wrongful death lawsuit:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Replacement of wages, bonuses, and retirement plan the deceased earned in the present and would have earned in the future
- Compensation for the cost of hiring someone to do household tasks normally done by the deceased
- The loss of inheritance the deceased would have provided had they lived
Sacramento Wrongful Death Lawyer
I am Ed Smith, and I am a Sacramento wrongful death lawyer. My firm has helped numerous clients since 1982 in wrongful deaths and hit-and-run accidents. Call me at (916) 921-6400 or at (800) 404-5400 for my free and friendly advice. You can also reach out to me online.
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