Merced Woman Died After Hit and Run Accident
A woman who was injured in a recent hit and run pedestrian accident in the Merced area has died, according to an update by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). She has been identified by the Merced County Coroner’s Office as 23-year-old Lydia Arroyo of Merced.
Details on the Fatal Hit and Run Accident in Merced
A report by CHP traffic officers revealed that a passing motorist spotted Ms. Arroyo lying in the roadway along East 16th Street and contacted emergency personnel. At approximately 5:45 a.m., authorities responded, and she was airlifted to a Modesto hospital to be treated for serious injuries. Sadly, she succumbed to her injuries during hospitalization that day.
An investigation by local law enforcement revealed that the woman was walking in the area when she was hit by an unspecified car headed northbound on the off-ramp of Highway 99 at E 16th Street. The search for the driver and vehicle involved in the fatal pedestrian accident continues, and a description of both have not yet been released by authorities. Anyone with details on the hit and run accident is encouraged to reach out to the CHP Merced area office.
What Survivors Should Know About the Wrongful Death Claims Process
The loss of a family member is tragic and devastating, particularly if it occurred suddenly and because of someone else’s negligence. What is most unfortunate is the financial hardship and mental anguish that often follows a death in the family. When a loss of life occurs because of the carelessness or recklessness of another party or entity, a wrongful death claim may be in order. This type of case may be brought by a surviving spouse, domestic partner, or children of the decedent to seek compensation for their loss. This is by the California Code of Civil Procedure Section 377.60. Other family members may also be eligible to file under this section.
California law allows two years to file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking the recovery of damages resulting from a fatal pedestrian accident. This period in which a case must be filed in civil court is known as the statute of limitations. If a suit is not filed within the two-year statute of limitations, surviving family members may lose the right to take legal action against at-fault parties. Other filing deadlines may apply in a hit-and-run case where there are claims brought under uninsured motorist (UM) coverage.
Because of the limited amount of time to conduct an investigation of the incident, collect evidence, and meet filing deadlines, it is essential to retain legal counsel right away. While speaking with a lawyer may be the last thing on the minds of surviving family members after the sudden loss of a close relative, it may be in their best interest to have their situation reviewed by a compassionate and experienced attorney to determine their best options for recovery moving forward. If unsure of what to look for in the best attorney to handle your case, watch this video.
Benefits of Working with a Wrongful Death Attorney
A compassionate attorney with years of experience handling wrongful death matters may be an invaluable source of support for you and your loved ones following the loss of a family member. Allow a lawyer to handle all aspects of your case so you all can focus on grieving and starting the healing process instead of dealing with difficult insurance companies. To receive free, friendly case advice, contact our legal team today and learn how we can help.
Personal Injury Lawyer in Merced
I’m Ed Smith, a Merced personal injury lawyer. When coming to terms with the loss of a loved one after a pedestrian accident, you and your family may be unsure of how to proceed in your situation. At our law firm, we have many wrongful death cases for families after the loss of a close relative. We understand the emotional and financial challenges such tragedies may have on surviving family members, and we want to help your family through this difficult time. To learn how we can help, contact us at (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400. You are welcome to contact us anytime to discuss your case and receive free, friendly advice from our legal team.
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Keep in mind that no two wrongful death car accident cases are alike. When searching for the best lawyer, consider their experience with your type of case. To see how we have resolved past cases for our clients, please visit our Verdicts and Settlements page.
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