Most pedestrians walking on the sidewalk deserve to feel relatively safe. Unfortunately, sometimes a reckless or drunk driver will leave the road, striking pedestrians who are on the sidewalk. Since an automobile weighs so much more than a pedestrian and may be travelling at a high rate of speed, these accidents can result in serious injuries or even fatalities.
A family of four from Orange County was hit by an alleged drunk driver. The accident left the mother of the family dead and the father and their two teenagers seriously injured. The family was walking on a sidewalk near the street when the driver hit them. According to police, the driver remained at the scene of the fatal accident. Police suspected the driver of being under the influence of alcohol and eventually arrested him.
While everyone in the family was taken to a nearby hospital, the mother died from her injuries about an hour after the accident. The condition of the other three victims was listed as “serious,” but no other details of their injuries were provided.
Drunk drivers may face serious criminal charges, but in some situations, they could also possibly be held civilly responsible as well. Those filing a personal injury lawsuit may be able to seek compensation for medical bills, lost income, funeral expenses and pain and offering and emotional distress.
When a serious car accident occurs, filing a claim may be the last thing on the victim’s mind. However, they still should be prepared to consider their legal options when the time is right to do so. When there is an auto accident caused by a negligent driver, the victims may want to learn more about pursuing a legal claim.
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