Pedestrian mistaken for deer in Florida fatal hit-and-run

On Behalf of | Jun 12, 2013 | Wrongful Death |

A hit-and-run accident can happen in a blink of an eye. It is not something that is generally planned by the person who ends up causing the accident and then driving away from the accident scene. Yet, in that single instant, a life can be taken, and a negligent driver can become liable for a wrongful death.

In Oviedo, Florida, a man recently was arrested, charged with the death of a 34-year-old pedestrian and released on a $20,000 bond. The 27-year-old man was driving along the A1A State Road when he hit the pedestrian and left the scene. According to investigators, the driver thought he had hit a deer. The body of the victim was found on the state road north of Patrick Air Force Base.

Fatal accident cases are preventable if a driver takes reasonable care and is not distracted, speeding or intoxicated. If negligence is the cause of the accident, then the victim’s family, having suffered the loss of a loved one, may be eligible to file a wrongful death suit. Filing a suit not only can holds the negligent party accountable, but also secures compensation for the financial difficulties stemming from funeral expenses, loss of income and other damages.

Wrongful death cases may seem straightforward, but they can be extremely complex and tedious at times at the same time. A legal professional can shed light on the fine points, including determining compensation, which Getting advice about your rights in these situations can be crucial. For instance, if the victim had dependents, the compensation may cover not only the funeral costs, but also the loss of companionship and loss of parental guidance.

Source: Florida Today, “Man Charged in Connection with Hit-and-Run Death,” Scott Gunnerson, June 01, 2013

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attorneys Brad Culpepper and Brett J. Kurland