[12-23-2020] Santa Cruz Country, CA – Pedestrian Killed After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Aptos

An unidentified 47-year-old man was killed after getting struck by a hit-and-run driver in Aptos on Monday night, December 21.

[12-23-2020] Santa Cruz Country, CA - Pedestrian Killed After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Aptos

The deadly accident took place on Highway 1 near Shafter Road in Aptos at approximately 11:30 p.m.

The man was reportedly walking along the highway when a black 2002 GMC Yukon suddenly hit him.

The driver of the GMC Yukon exited his vehicle and escaped the scene by foot. The victim sustained life-threatening injuries as a result of the crash. He was later pronounced dead at the scene.

Witnesses that can provide information about the hit-and-run driver and urged to call (831) 662-0511 (daytime) or (831) 796-2160 (after hours).

Fatal Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accident Investigation is Underway

Local authorities are currently investigating the case. The police are now attempting to pursue the hit-and-run driver. It is apparent in this case that the liability falls on the hit-and-run driver for leaving the victim wounded and fleeing the scene. The suspect will most likely face criminal charges once caught.

Unfortunately, around one in five pedestrian accidents are caused by hit-and-run drivers. Sixty percent of people killed in hit-and-run accidents are pedestrians. Common reasons why hit-and-run drivers flee the scene are intoxication, driving without a license, and fear of getting arrested if they remained.

Pedestrians currently make up a large percentage of traffic fatalities in the past 33 years. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, pedestrian fatalities in the U.S. have increased by 27 percent from 2007-2016, while other traffic-related deaths decreased by 14 percent.

When facing cases like this, it’s vital to have an experienced Santa Cruz County wrongful death attorney specializing in fatal pedestrian accidents to conduct an independent investigation. Attorneys have the resources that can help them prove the negligence of the liable party. They can re-interview important witnesses, review relevant surveillance footage from the scene, and obtain the responsible party’s phone and texting records.

I WAS IN AN ACCIDENT

Wrongful Death Attorney for Victims of Pedestrian Accidents in Santa Cruz County

The sudden loss of a loved one due to a fatal pedestrian accident can come as quite a shock for the family members that the victim left behind. As the victim’s family undergoes grief, they may be left vulnerable to manipulation by insurance companies and the guilty party.

Through the wrongful death claim, the victim’s family can seek compensation for the damages (such as loss of income and companionship, funeral costs, pain and suffering, and emotional distress) that the fatal accident has caused them.

Attorneys can serve as a compassionate, helpful legal guide during this difficult time for the grieving family. They will vigorously fight for their client’s rights and best interests while ensuring that the liable party will be held accountable for their negligence. Attorneys can also negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of their clients to ensure they are compensated fairly.

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If you are actively seeking justice for your injury case, Arash Law has dedicated lawyers ready to help you. Our firm has decades of experience, along with thousands of settlements accomplished. If you would like to inquire about our services, you may visit our offices in Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Francisco, Riverside, Orange County, and San Diego. You may also contact us through our number hotline (888) 488-1391 for a FREE Consultation.

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