While anywhere near a roadway, pedestrians need to be aware at all times of the vehicles driving around them. Although vehicular drivers are expected to be the vigilant ones, they are often easily distracted and may not be aware of a lone pedestrian in their path. This lack of focus can lead to a fatal accident, bringing misery and pain to many people. A 61-year-old Texas woman was killed in a recent nighttime fatal accident.
The woman had entered an intersection via the painted crosswalk. The driver of a pickup truck approached the intersection with the intention of making a left-hand turn and was careful to wait for the cars headed toward him to pass. However, he did not see the woman in the crosswalk and hit her as he turned.
Emergency responders were able to get the woman to an area hospital, but she died soon after from her injuries. A report on the accident did not disclose pending charges toward the driver of the pickup truck. Further information will likely be available at a later date.
Should the evidence indicate that the driver’s negligence caused the death of the woman, her family has the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit. A monetary award could give the family the money to pay for the short-term medical bills incurred before her death, as well as the expenses related to her funeral and burial. Texas residents who have had a loved one taken from them too soon in a fatal accident can speak to an attorney about their rights and what to expect should they pursue claims for recovery of monetary damages.