Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident on Sunset Drive
The Antioch Police Department (Antioch PD) reported a fatal hit-and-run accident involving a pedestrian on Sunset Drive on December 20, 2021. The incident was reported to Antioch PD around 12:10 a.m. and reportedly took place along the 1200 block of Sunset Drive.
Details on the Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident on Sunset Drive in Antioch
Antioch PD revealed that officers responding to the scene located a 40-year-old man that was unresponsive and appeared to have been suffering from serious injuries. Officials performed life-saving measures on the injured pedestrian. Sadly, their efforts were unsuccessful as he succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The Contra Costa County Coroner’s Office has recently identified the decedent as Marcus Westbrook, 40, of Pittsburg.
A preliminary report by authorities revealed that the pedestrian sustained injuries that were consistent with being hit by a car. The investigation has been assigned to the Antioch PD Traffic Unit. There is no additional information on the pedestrian accident in Antioch due to ongoing investigation. No description of the suspect nor the suspect vehicle has yet been released. Anyone with details on the incident is encouraged to contact Antioch PD.
Does Insurance Cover Fatal Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accidents?
In a fatal pedestrian accident where the at-fault party remained at the scene and cooperated with officials in the investigation, the solution is generally simple. The family of the decedent may bring a wrongful death claim with the insurance company representing the negligent driver to seek a settlement for economic and non-economic damages. This may include the costs of medical treatment for the deceased individual’s final injury before they passed away, expenses for funeral and burial services, the loss of companionship the family has endured, lost future financial support for the household if the decedent was a provider of their loved ones, and more.
In situations where the driver responsible for a fatal crash fled the scene and goes unidentified, surviving family members may feel as though they are at a loss when it comes to holding the at-fault party liable for the undue harm they have experienced. The same may also be said for the unexpected expenses they may be left with because of the sudden loss of a loved one. Fortunately, survivors may have recourse under these circumstances if their deceased close relative carried uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage (UM and UIM) or lived with someone who carries this type of protection.
The uninsured motorist coverage may come into effect for a fatal hit-and-run accident to compensate the family for financial and intangible losses if the suspect driver has not been located. UM coverage may provide protection up to the limits of the policy. If the at-fault party is identified and is found to carry little to no liability coverage, UM and UIM may still apply depending on the facts and circumstances of the civil case. However, surviving family members should keep in mind that first-party claims are not always straightforward as the insurer may dispute the extent of compensatory damages or liability for the incident. In such situations, it is essential to retain a wrongful death lawyer in Antioch to represent your family and protect your interests. For details on how to find the best attorney, watch this video.
About Our Law Firm
Our law firm can offer compassionate and knowledgeable insight after the loss of a loved one in a fatal motor vehicle collision. We have been helping families across California since 1982 and have extensive experience dealing with difficult insurance companies and defense counsel. Our legal team has also handled many wrongful death claims arising from hit-and-run accidents and will work with private investigators to track down the suspect driver to help bring justice to you and your family. We will stop at nothing to hold the at-fault party financially accountable for the harm their actions have caused your family. Give us a call today to learn more about how we can help your family through this difficult time.
Wrongful Death Attorney in Antioch
I’m Ed Smith, an Antioch wrongful death lawyer. The unexpected loss of a close relative is devastating under any circumstances. When that loss was the result of someone else’s negligence, it may compound the grieving process with anger and frustration. While taking legal action may be the last of the concerns for surviving family members left behind to pick up the pieces, it is essential to work with an experienced accident attorney to protect your rights and future. Give us a call today to discuss your case and receive free, friendly advice at (925) 428-5220 or (800) 404-5400. Our legal team handles cases under a contingency fee agreement meaning that you do not have to pay any fees unless we obtain a favorable outcome in your case.
Finding the best injury attorney to handle your case may be challenging, particularly if you are unsure of what to look for in one. Going through client ratings and reviews may be helpful in your final decision. See ours at these links:
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At our law firm, we have the resources, expertise, and knowledge necessary to obtain a favorable outcome in your case. To see how we have helped other families with their cases, visit our Verdicts and Settlements page.
Photo Source: Pixabay User “RoonZ-nl”
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