Drunk drivers pose dangers to everyone in their path. Other motorists, pedestrians and even those inside homes and commercial buildings can fall victim to an intoxicated driver’s negligence. Those who find themselves in this destructive path often suffer serious injuries. In the worst cases, such a car accident results in death. In order to deter such dangerous driving and to recover their economic and noneconomic damages, family members of deceased victims should consider filing a wrongful death lawsuit.
One Pennsylvania man’s family may want to do this after he was killed by an alleged drunk driver in a hit-and-run accident. According to Pittsburgh Police, the victim was struck in the early morning hours and was pronounced dead at a local hospital. Their investigation led them to a vehicle that had heavy front end damage, and they subsequently arrested the 25-year-old driver. He now faces charges of homicide by vehicle and DUI.
A wrongful death lawsuit filed against another will likely succeed if the surviving family can show the defendant’s negligence caused their loved one’s death and resulted in damages. In the case where a drunk driver caused the accident, these elements will likely be satisfied. Then, if a jury finds for the family, compensation may be awarded to help cover pain and suffering, lost wages, medical expenses, funeral costs and loss of companionship.
The loss of a loved one may be one of the most difficult things to cope with in life. The injustice, coupled with undeserved financial ramifications that only serve as a reminder of the terrible accident, can leave a family devastated. The legal process, however, can provide these families an outlet for their grief, mourning and anger. Once justice is achieved and compensation obtained, then a family may be able to move on in remembrance of their loved one.
Source: Lancaster Online, “W. Pa. man dies after accident, driver arrested,” Feb. 9, 2014