Fatal Hit and Run Accident in Modesto Area
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported a fatal hit and run accident in the Modesto area on the afternoon of Friday, May 21, 2021. The collision occurred around 5:00 p.m. on Glenn Avenue, just east of Ustick Road.
Details on the Modesto Area Hit and Run Accident
According to CHP traffic investigators, a 2021 Toyota sedan was headed westbound on Glenn Avenue. For unknown reasons, the Toyota collided with an 18-month-old boy. The Toyota driver, identified as a 19-year-old man, allegedly did not stop after the accident. However, he returned to the scene after witnesses of the incident followed him.
The child was transported to the hospital after the pedestrian accident. Sadly, he succumbed to his injuries during hospitalization. The Toyota driver was later arrested on charges of felony hit and run. Further details on the fatal accident were not immediately available as an investigation is ongoing by CHP.
Loss of a Loved One in a Fatal Pedestrian Accident
Crashes involving pedestrians occur often in Modesto and throughout California. Driver distractions, disobeying the rules of the road, and speeding often result in pedestrian accidents. If a loved one was killed because of a negligent driver or entity, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim against the insurance company representing the at-fault party for damages incurred.
In situations where the negligent driver has insufficient bodily injury liability coverage or none, the family may seek recourse through their insurance plan. This is a viable option for a first-party insurance claim so long as they carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM). What is particularly useful about UM coverage is that it may come into play in pedestrian accidents caused by hit and run drivers.
Surviving family members are particularly emotionally vulnerable after the wrongful death of a loved one. A Modesto wrongful death attorney is there to seek justice and fair compensation for next of kin after a pedestrian accident caused by a negligent driver has claimed a life. For details on how to find the best lawyer in your area to handle your case, watch the video below.
What is the Filing Deadline for a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in California?
If a fair and reasonable settlement cannot be reached with the insurance company, a wrongful death lawsuit must be filed in civil court within two years of the date of a loved one’s death. This is by the California Code of Civil Procedure Section 335.1. Unfortunately, this does not allow much time for surviving family members to grieve. The last thing survivors want to do is rush a case while mourning.
How an Attorney Can Help
Fortunately, a wrongful death attorney understands the consequences that come with the unexpected loss of a loved one in an accident. That is why a lawyer is there to protect you and your family to ensure you all receive the justice and compensation you deserve while allowing you all the time you need to recover from your loss.
At our law firm, we understand how stressful and overwhelming the loss of a close relative can be for survivors. That is why we have worked with many families dealing with wrongful death cases since 1982.
Depending on the facts and circumstances of your case, you may be entitled to recovery of medical costs, funeral service bills, loss of companionship, and other losses your family has experienced. There is no amount of money that can make up for the death of a close relative, but California law recognizes the loss to those left behind. To learn how we can help you and your family, reach out to us today for a free consultation.
Wrongful Death Attorney in Modesto
I’m Ed Smith, a Modesto wrongful death attorney. Losing a loved one is a tragic, life-changing experience. When the cause of the death is a devastating event like a pedestrian accident, the grieving process may be compounded by anger and frustration for surviving family members. If you have lost a close relative in a motor vehicle collision in California, our thoughts are with you and your family. When you have questions regarding your case, reach out to our attorneys for free, friendly advice at (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400.
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To ensure you obtain justice and fair compensation for your loss, it is essential to work with an experienced wrongful death lawyer. Our legal team has represented many families like yours in this situation and can help you all move forward. To see how we have resolved past cases, go to our Verdicts and Settlements page.
Photo Source: By “Goran H” via Pixabay
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