The fifth pedestrian fatality in less than two weeks in Hampton Roads occurred in Chesapeake, Virginia (VA), on February 7, 2012. According to the Virginian-Pilot, a man lost his life after being run over by a Ford F-150 pickup truck near the intersection of N. George Washington Highway and Townhouse Lane. Neither alcohol nor speed appears to have played a role in causing the deadly accident, but the at-fault driver, who stopped at the scene and called police, said the victim had been lying in the roadway before being struck.
The investigation into the wreck has just begun, but even if no criminal charges are brought against the truck’s driver, he may still face some liability if the deceased pedestrians family files a wrongful death claim. While few of the early details point to recklessness by the driver, evidence of negligence such as distracted driving do to cell phone use could turn up.
Deciding to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit is never an easy decision, but when their grief has abated somewhat the victim’s family should consider contacting a Virginia personal injury attorney to discuss their legal options.
EJL