Andrew David Fatally Struck by Hit-and-Run Driver on Fenton Mill Rd

On Saturday, April 15th, James City County Police were called to the scene of a hit-and-run collision with a pedestrian fatality on Fenton Mill Road at about 11:45 p.m. According to sources, Virginia State Police were also requested to the scene where they took over as the lead agency.  

How can I collect compensation for a wrongful death caused by a hit-and-run driver?

Reports reveal that Andrew David, 64, was walking his dog when a vehicle driving in the eastbound lane hit him from behind. The driver failed to remain at the scene, render aid, or notify authorities, choosing instead to flee the scene eastbound on Fenton Mill Road.

Virginia State Police are searching for anyone who may have witnessed the incident, which took place in the area of Croaker Road. Anyone who saw the hit-and-run or noticed any suspicious activity is asked to contact the Virginia State Police by calling (757) 424-6800 or via email at [email protected].

Car accidents are frustrating and terrifying for victims and their surviving family members. When the driver responsible for the crash leaves the scene, it brings up an entirely new set of problems. If you were injured or lost a loved one in a hit-and-run car accident, you should reach out to a Virginia personal injury lawyer from Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp as quickly as possible so we can begin investigating your case. 

What is a Hit-and-Run Accident?

A hit-and-run car accident occurs when one of the parties involved in an accident fails to exchange information or stay at the scene. An accident can also be considered a hit-and-run when the striking driver does stop but refuses to identify themselves or trade information.  

Virginia law requires those involved in car accidents to exchange information so that any parties who sustained property damage, personal injuries, or wrongful death due to a car accident can ensure that the liable driver’s insurance company and their own insurance company are both notified and appropriate action can be taken. A Virginia hit-and-run accident lawyer can also help injured victims or their surviving family members deal with the insurance company if they are unable to do so themselves. 

How is a Hit-and-Run Different from Other Car Accidents?

What makes a hit-and-run accident different from any other kind of car accident is the challenge of determining liability for the damages the accident caused. In a standard vehicle accident, two drivers are involved, their insurers are notified, and liability is established.

In a hit-and-run car accident, liability is hard to determine and it is possible that the at-fault driver might never successfully be identified. If the liable driver cannot be identified, it is basically impossible to file a claim against their insurance company for any damage they caused. In this case, the victim would need to have UM or UIM coverage provided by their own insurance carrier in order to collect compensation.  

How Can an Attorney Help a Hit-and-Run Case? 

There are many different ways in which an attorney would be able to help after an injurious or fatal hit-and-run crash. A Virginia car accident lawyer can perform a thorough investigation and work with local law enforcement and other agencies in an attempt to figure out who was at fault and how they can be located.  

In Virginia, leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident without notifying the police and without stopping to render aid or call for help is a criminal offense. It can result in the fleeing driver being charged with a felony or a misdemeanor depending on the circumstances. Both types of convictions are serious and are accompanied by strict penalties and a criminal record.

Talk to a Car Accident or Wrongful Death Attorney

An experienced wrongful death lawyer will have the resources needed to fully investigate your family member’s death, ensure that you know your rights, and help you seek financial compensation. 

If you lost a loved one to wrongful death in a hit-and-run accident, you should let a reputable Virginia wrongful death attorney from Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp review your potential claim. Call our Virginia Beach offices at (833) 997-1774 to schedule your free consultation with our law firm today. 

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