Cyclist Killed in Hit-and-Run in Hayward
Officials are searching for a hit-and-run driver who killed a cyclist in Hayward on September 6, 2023. The collision occurred around Orchard Avenue and Mission Boulevard, the Hayward Police Department reported. Those who knew and loved the decedent are grieving and seeking justice for their loss.
Details on the Hit-and-Run That Killed a Cyclist in Hayward
A preliminary release indicated that Chris Pena was riding his bicycle on Mission Boulevard when he was allegedly struck by a vehicle. Friends and family said it was his routine commute home. The driver of the involved vehicle allegedly left the scene following the bicycle accident.
Hayward PD has described the suspect vehicle as a Mercedes-Benz E-350 that is gray in color. Friends of Mr. Pena said he was a mechanical engineer and left behind a wife and three children. A GoFundMe page has been set up for the Pena Family to assist with expenses from the unexpected loss.
Defining Wrongful Death in California
A loss of life is deemed wrongful death when it occurs from the negligent or reckless act of another individual or entity. In a bicycle accident, the motorist that crashed into the cyclist may be held liable for the damages that occurred. Surviving family members who meet the filing criteria set forth in CCP 377.60 may file a claim for wrongful death against the driver who caused the cycling crash fatality. In some circumstances, a family may have to file a claim through their uninsured motorist coverage if the incident involved a hit-and-run driver. This will be based on the facts of the case.
In the meantime, a family may benefit from having an experienced California wrongful death attorney on their side following a hit-and-run bicycle collision. When survivors have a lawyer on their side, they can depend on their attorney to use their resources to hire a private investigator to locate and identify the suspect driver. From there, the attorney will work to build a strong case against the motorist. A lawyer will have the best interests of surviving family members at heart throughout the legal process to ensure a successful result is obtained on their behalf.
Waiting to reach out to a wrongful death lawyer may weaken a case. Therefore, it is essential that surviving family members contact an attorney immediately to discuss their potential case in a free consultation. Survivors will be advised of their rights under California law and how to proceed in their situation. Our legal team at AutoAccident.com has the knowledge, resources, and experience to build a strong case to secure a favorable outcome. Learn more by watching this video about our firm.
What Damages are Compensable in Cases of Wrongful Death?
Surviving family members may receive compensation for non-economic and economic damages. These may include loss of financial income and benefits that the decedent would have provided to the family, mental anguish from the unexpected loss of a close relative, funeral service costs, expenses for treatment of the deceased’s final injury (via survival action), loss of companionship, and other associated damages. Punitive damages may be sought if the motorist who caused the fatal incident was excessively speeding or driving while impaired. For more information, reach out to a skilled attorney near you.
Wrongful Death Lawyer in Hayward
Our legal team at AutoAccident.com serves families in Hayward and surrounding areas in California. With our services, we are committed to helping surviving family members obtain the justice and full compensation they deserve. We work diligently to build the strongest cases possible to secure favorable and meaningful results for those we represent. To learn how our experienced and skilled Hayward wrongful death lawyers can help you and your loved ones, call (510) 631-0200 or (800) 404-5400 for compassionate, free, and friendly advice.
Picture Attribution: RDNE ~ Pexels
:ds llo [cs 658]