Update | Pedestrian Killed in Hit-and-Run Near Buena Vista Drive in Merced

Home » Update | Pedestrian Killed in Hit-and-Run Near Buena Vista Drive in Merced
September 08, 2023
Edward Smith

Fatal Pedestrian Collision on R Street

The Merced Police Department is investigating a fatal hit-and-run pedestrian collision that occurred on R Street on September 6, 2023. Shortly after 5:20 a.m., Merced PD officers responded to a report of an injured pedestrian lying on the road. The incident location was on R Street between Buena Vista Drive and Loughborough Drive, officials said.

Fatal Pedestrian Collision on R Street in Merced

A preliminary release by Merced PD revealed that a female pedestrian was located lying in the roadway. She was found suffering from injuries consistent with getting hit by a motor vehicle. Passing drivers pulled over and contacted Merced PD after spotting the pedestrian down on the road.

First responders performed life-saving measures on the injured pedestrian. Sadly, their efforts were unsuccessful, and the woman was declared deceased at the crash site. Officials have recently identified the deceased as a Merced resident, Alicia Ann Brown, age 37.

Merced PD is investigating the incident to identify the suspect driver. It is believed that the involved vehicle was a full-size pickup truck. Additional information has not yet been released.

What is the Purpose of a Wrongful Death Action?

The purpose of a case of wrongful death is to hold the negligent party accountable for the fatal incident and the loss of life. It also serves to seek compensation for financial losses and intangible harm that resulted from a loved one’s passing. The non-economic and economic damages available in these cases should reflect the past losses that surviving family members have experienced and will expect to incur because of a close relative’s death. Eligible survivors may seek reimbursement for reduced inheritance, loss of financial support, final resting costs, medical bills for final injuries (via survival action), and more.

To hold a responsible individual or entity accountable for an accident that claimed a loved one’s life, survivors must present clear and compelling evidence demonstrating that the other side’s negligence caused the incident in question. This usually requires an in-depth investigation into the fatal accident, collection of evidence before it is destroyed or altered, and building a strong case for full compensation. Evidence in these matters generally depends on the type of accident and the unique facts and circumstances involved.

The wrongful death claims process is often frustrating and time-consuming. Survivors must know what evidence is needed in support of a claim for damages, where to locate it, and how to present it to the insurer or defense counsel. When a family works with an experienced California wrongful death attorney, they can depend on their lawyer to handle their case from start to finish. This includes providing regular updates regarding their work on the case, identifying at-fault parties, managing communications with other parties and insurers, gathering evidence, and working toward a favorable resolution.

Is it Expensive to Hire an Attorney For a Wrongful Death Case?

Most lawyers generally represent surviving family members under contingent fee agreements. This means that no upfront fees are charged to the client. Instead, the attorney will only get paid if a favorable resolution is obtained in the case. Under this arrangement, surviving family members can focus on recovering from grief and focus on rebuilding their lives while their lawyer handles their case. Moreover, survivors do not have to worry about retainers or high hourly rates when their case is handled under a contingent fee arrangement. For more information, contact an experienced lawyer near you.

Wrongful Death Lawyer in Merced

In any situation where a close relative’s demise occurred due to another party’s negligence or carelessness, a wrongful death claim may be in order. Surviving family members should consider speaking with a lawyer with experience in handling these cases in a free consultation. While the loss of a loved one is difficult, seeking justice does not have to be. Our legal team at AutoAccident.com is here to help and provide free, friendly case advice. Contact our Merced wrongful death lawyers to get started with a free case review at (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400.

Picture Source: Pexels User – IvanCuesta

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