What Happened
The victim was identified as 20-year-old Darnell Ross. It was reported that Ross fell while he walked in the crosswalk, when he did he was struck by the car. The driver of the vehicle did not stop and police have launched a full investigation. Ross was taken to a local hospital but later died as a result of the pedestrian accident injuries.
The Virginia Wrongful Death Lawyers’ Perspective
In Virginia (VA) when a pedestrian is crossing a highway in a clearly marked crosswalk and the speed limit is less than 35 miles per hour, the driver of any automobile approaching that crosswalk is required to change course, slow down or come to a complete stop, if that maneuver is necessary to allow the pedestrian to cross safely. This is a special law that offers extra protection to pedestrians who are crossing streets in clearly marked crosswalks, and protects them from personal injury or death in crosswalks. Even if the accident had taken place outside of a crosswalk pedestrians are still protected by state law. This was true for a client of ours who was walking near a local college and was struck by a distracted driver. The insurance company tried to raise the issue of contributory negligence because our client was walking in an area without a crosswalk. Our firm is familiar with all the tricks the insurance company has to try and minimize a client’s case. After numerous discussions with the insurance company, the adjuster offered to settle the claim for a sizable sum.
Potentially Helpful Info:
Take a moment to read our car accident injury guide so you’re fully informed about what to do if you are hurt in a Virginia (VA) or North Carolina (NC) car accident.
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