Careless drivers can put every other driver on the road at risk when they chose to focus on something other than what’s in front of them. Drivers can be distracted so easily, but when alcohol or drugs factor in the results can be especially dangerous.
In some cases, distracted drivers will notice an impending accident at the last second and are able to slam the brakes to slow their car down before impact. In DUI accidents the drivers can have their reflexes slowed by drugs or alcohol and they can fail to hit the brakes, bringing the full speed of the car into the collision. The resulting injuries can be that much more severe and the collision can even claim a life.
Merced DUI Hit and Run Accident
A suspect in a deadly hit and run accident in Merced on Saturday night has been arrested. The Merced Sun-Star reported on the accident on V Street near 9th Street on July 1, 2020. Police say the driver of a black Camaro was speeding, ran a red light and crashed into two other vehicles.
The collision killed one man and left one man with major injuries. He was flown to the hospital. Two other people suffered minor injuries.
Witnesses on the scene informed officers that the driver responsible drove away from the scene, but was parked a block away. The suspect was taken into custody for DUI, hit and run, and vehicular manslaughter.
Wrongful Death Claims after a Tragedy
When a tragic accident occurs, the family of the victim may be left with little time to deal with the grief that follows. Any hospital bills from before the death and funeral costs can all come due at once. That doesn’t even take into consideration the wages lost because the deceased can’t provide income from his or her job anymore. These bills can add to the anguish, especially if another driver’s decision to use alcohol or drugs is responsible for the accident that took a loved one’s life.
Families in these situations should know that they are protected under state law. They are allowed to file a wrongful death claim against anyone who had a part in causing the death of the victim. A husband or wife or domestic partner of the victim is usually responsible for filing the claim. If there is no husband or wife, the children of the deceased can file the claim. In the absence of children, a parent may be allowed to file.
Deadline to File a Wrongful Deat Claim
A few things that are important to remember. In California, state law gives the family of the victim a two-year deadline to file against the at-fault drivers and their insurance companies. It is not recommended that a family wait the full two years after an accident to file a claim. The more time that passes, the harder it will be to gather evidence and documents to build a strong case.
Also, in a DUI case, the driver that caused your accident will also be facing criminal charges and be involved in a criminal trial. Your claim against the driver will be part of a separate civil case. The civil trial can proceed even if the criminal proceedings aren’t finished
Contact a Merced Wrongful Death Lawyer
After the tragic death of a loved one, a local wrongful death attorney who is experienced in state law can be of great help when you attempt to get compensation for everything your family has been through. This can include any financial and emotional hardships.
After an accident in the Central Valley, contact attorney Martin Gasparian for a free consultation and case evaluation. Mr. Gasparian takes a hands-on approach to every case. He believes that every client should work directly with their lawyer, get honest advice, and personalized attention to detail their case deserves.
