Being in an auto accident in Tampa and throughout Florida can cause catastrophic injuries and death. These accidents happen in many circumstances, but among the most dangerous are if a person’s car breaks down on the road and he or she is waiting for assistance. Drivers who pass people in these situations must take care not to crash into them. Even if there is an accident, the driver is obligated to stop and call emergency services. Unfortunately, many drivers do not, leading to a hit-and-run.
The danger of this was made clear when a teen died after being hit by a passing pickup truck after which the driver fled. The 19-year-old was with a 16-year-old companion on a bridge at about 1 p.m. when they started having car trouble. The 16-year-old was driving and pulled onto the shoulder. The two waited for assistance. Standing by the vehicle, the 19-year-old was hit by a pickup that had drifted onto the shoulder. After hitting the teen, the driver of the pickup, 33, continued driving until other vehicles boxed him in and he was forced to stop. Law enforcement arrived and arrested him for fleeing the scene of a fatal collision and driving without a license.
Auto accidents can have severe consequences. People who are pedestrians or are outside a disabled vehicle are especially vulnerable. Even if the person survives, there is a chance that he or she will suffer brain trauma, spinal cord damage, broken bones, cuts and more. This can negatively impact them personally and financially. If the crash is severe enough, there may be a fatality. An unexpected loss of a loved one in a fatal accident is difficult in any circumstance, but when it is a young person, it is particularly painful. To recover compensation, a wrongful death legal filing might be necessary.
For those considering a lawsuit, it is imperative to understand the specific laws regarding wrongful death in Florida. Family members can pursue a lawsuit to be compensated for all they have lost. Before accepting a settlement or making a mistake that can damage the case, it is wise to consult with experienced legal professionals. A firm that has experience in auto accident cases with catastrophic injuries and death may be able to help.