Driver fleeing police causes fatal car crash killing pedestrian

On Behalf of | Apr 22, 2015 | Wrongful Death |

There are a multitude of dangers when a Tampa resident is out on the road as a pedestrian, bicyclist, motorcyclist or driver. Oftentimes, people on the roads are at risk of being involved in a wrongful death incident. When there is a loss of a loved one in a fatal accident, those who have been affected need to understand what to do next.

A dashboard camera on a police car made a recording of a traffic stop that happened right before the driver crashed into a man, killing him. The 25-year-old driver was speeding at approximately 2 a.m. when the crash occurred. According to the video, the law enforcement officer, who is part of a unit to catch drivers operating their vehicles under the influence, tried to stop the speeding vehicle. The police vehicle was unmarked and the flashing lights were a signal for the driver to stop. The driver tried to get away from the officer. The officer ended the pursuit. The fleeing vehicle hit one man, killing him. Then another pedestrian was hit before the car crashed. The driver and a passenger ran on foot, but were caught. The driver faces numerous charges, including DUI, drug charges and vehicular manslaughter.

A fatal accident can have a long-lasting influence on the decedent’s family. In addition to the funeral costs, there will be other financial, personal and emotional issues that will come to the forefront. Insurance companies are often more than willing to settle a case after there was a fatal car crash to preclude a legal filing that can result in a more substantial amount in compensation. Families who are reeling from the loss of a loved one might accept an offer without thinking it through and have greater problems later on.

In this case, the driver of the vehicle hit a man and killed him as he fled police. The man who was hit was a chef and his family will have to find a way to move on without him.

Source: MyFoxTampaBay.com, “Dashcam video shows events leading to St. Pete DUI crash,” Steve Nichols, Apr. 13, 2015

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