Hit-and-run collision between pedestrian and vehicle kills one

Walking on the streets of New Jersey is not something out of the ordinary for local residents. Pedestrians are seen using sidewalks and crosswalks during their commutes to work, school, stores or other destinations. When pedestrians frequent areas where there is heavy traffic, the chances of a pedestrian accident and personal injury or wrongful death between an automobile and a pedestrian increase.

On a recent Saturday morning, an accident occurred in Hasbrouck Heights on Williams Avenue. The collision happened when a 31-year-old pedestrian was crossing the street while he was just leaving work. The man was struck and killed by a vehicle traveling eastbound on Route 17. The vehicle that struck the man left the scene of the accident, but a piece of the driver’s vehicle was left behind. Investigators have determined that the vehicle in question is a four-door Honda Accord made between 2008 and 2012.

Police are actively searching for the driver who fatally struck this man. Additional details about this hit-and-run have not been released at this time. While the investigation continues, the loved ones of the pedestrian could begin to consider what they will do once the responsible person is located. One option could be to file a wrongful death claim. In a situation where the man was only seriously injured, a personal injury claim could have been considered. With the potential compensation awarded, financial burdens such as medical bills, funeral costs, lost wages and pain and suffering could be covered.

It is important that both drivers and pedestrians are aware of one another. Understanding who has the right-of-way and following posted traffic signs and signals could prevent these types of fatal car accidents. Drivers should be prepared to slow down in areas where pedestrians are often seen.

Source: WABC-TV New York, “Police hunt driver in deadly New Jersey hit and run,” Marcus Solis, April 8, 2013