When you think of a fatal vehicle accident, you might think of those terrible crashes you see on the highways or the side of a road. But it’s important to note that these accidents don’t always happen that way, and one recent incident is a harsh reminder that fatal car accidents can happen when – and where – you least expect.
Fatal Gas Station Accident
It was at the end of January, just a few weeks ago, when a young child was struck by a car at a gas station. According to the story, published by WUSA 9,”The Metropolitan Police Department received calls for a little girl who had been hit by a car in the parking lot of a BP gas station. First responders and police responded to the crash at Pennsylvania and Minnesota Avenue in Southeast.”
According to the report, the victim, identified as 5-year-old Zyina Crump was running through the parking lot and ran into the path of the driver, who sadly didn’t have time to stop before hitting her. She was taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries where she later died.
It was a horrible reminder that fatal accidents can happen anywhere. Sometimes these crashes are the fault of the driver, and sometimes the pedestrian is at fault. At press time, this sad accident was still under investigation.
What Happens When A Pedestrian Is NOT at Fault?
If a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle and injured, and they believe they were not at fault, the victim (or the victim’s family) should immediately contact a personal injury lawyer, like those at The Lapidus Law Firm.
For example, on the same day as the gas station accident discussed above occured, a 49-year-old man was killed while crossing the street in a crosswalk. According to WUSA9, Chad Nieboer, of Northwest, DC was crossing at the intersection of 5th and H streets. While he was crossing, investigators say a Mack truck was making a right turn, and Nieboer was hit.
The investigation is still underway, but if the victim is said to have been crossing the street with the walk sign, the driver of that Mack truck will likely be held liable in this pedestrian accident. In this case, Mr. Nieboer’s family would need to contact a personal injury lawyer to help settle his fatal car accident claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Pedestrian Accident in the DMV
With so many people on foot every day (which includes tourists, and people headed to work or going downtown to enjoy a night out), pedestrian accidents are unfortunately all too common. If you or a loved one is injured by a driver and you’re walking, call us here at The Lapidus Law Firm.
Our award-winning team of talented attorneys have been representing victims and families with pedestrian accident claims for more than 4 decades. Our number one goal is to obtain a fair and reasonable settlement and rest assured, we will fight to make it right.