A 48-year-old man identified as Scott Hamers was killed after getting struck by an off-duty police officer’s patrol car in Benicia on early Wednesday morning, November 11.
According to the California Highway Patrol’s initial reports, the accident transpired around 2:00 a.m. in the 1900 block of East 2nd Street near the ramps to Interstate 780.
An off-duty police officer was driving on the roadway when he suddenly struck the pedestrian for reasons that have not been established.
It is unclear whether the pedestrian was walking on a marked crosswalk or whether the off-duty police officer was speeding at the time of the accident.
The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. The off-duty officer was uninjured from the accident.
Fatal Pedestrian Accident Investigation is Underway
Local authorities are currently investigating the possible factors that may have caused the fatal crash to happen.
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. Some common reasons for pedestrian accidents are negligent driving, speeding, and drivers failing to yield to pedestrians.
When facing cases like this, it’s vital to have an experienced Solano County wrongful death attorney specializing in fatal pedestrian accidents to conduct an independent investigation. Attorneys are capable of assisting their clients throughout the process. They will also re-interview important witnesses, review relevant surveillance footage from the scene, and obtain the responsible party’s phone and texting records.
Solano County Wrongful Death Claim for Victims of Fatal Pedestrian Accidents
It can be quite stressful and devastating to suddenly lose a loved one due to a fatal pedestrian accident. Pending the official investigation results, the victim’s family is entitled to seek compensation for the accident’s damages through the wrongful death claim. With the wrongful death claim, the victims can seek financial compensation for damages like loss of income, funeral expenses, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
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 that they are compensated fairly.
If you have a nagging suspicion that someone is to blame for your spouse or family member’s death, contact Arash Law. We have the resources you need to pursue justice for wrongful death and the experience to ensure fair compensation. We’re conveniently located throughout California, with offices in Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Francisco, Riverside, Orange County, and San Diego, and are happy to visit you. Call (888) 488-1391 for a FREE Consultation with a wrongful death attorney in California.