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Pedestrian in Motorized Wheelchair Struck and Killed in Hit and Run Crash on November 12th
A 61-year-old Las Vegas man was tragically killed Thursday, November 12th in the northeast side of the valley, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported. According to the report, law enforcement was called to Abels Lane near East Lake Mead Boulevard at about 5:25 p.m. The man had been traveling north on Abels Lane when he was struck by an unknown vehicle that was also traveling in the same direction.
The driver of the vehicle fled the scene without stopping. The pedestrian was taken to University Medical Center, where he sadly died of his injuries.
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department reported the victim’s death was the 87th traffic-related fatality the department is investigating this year. Our thoughts go out to the victim of this accident. The unexpected loss of a family member in a traffic accident is devastating. The fact that the driver did not stop is incredibly aggravating.
Police are Looking for the Driver
Detectives are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the vehicle that struck the pedestrian on Abels Lane. Anyone with any information is urged to call the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department – Collision Investigation Section at (702) 828-3595 or, to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555, visit crimestoppersofnv.com.
Hit and Run is a Crime in Nevada
If the news report and police press release is accurate, the driver did not stay at the scene of the accident. Failure to stop immediately is a crime. Penalties for leaving the scene of a crash that result in injury or death or severe – and punishment is not probationable. People convicted of felony hit and run (Felony Hit & Run — Involving death or bodily injury (NRS 484E.010)) will face two to 20 years in prison, a fine of $2,000 to $5,000, and a possible license suspension or revocation.
According to research from AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, Nevada has one of the highest rates of hit and run crashes in the country. Pedestrians and bicyclists are particularly vulnerable to hit-and-run crashes, and make up nearly 65% of the victims of hit and run accidents.
Criminal and Civil Liability For Hit and Run
If located, the driver could face criminal charges, as well as civil liability for wrongful death. A wrongful death claim can offer surviving family members compensation for final medical bills, funeral and burial expenses, and loss of love and companionship. If the victim has their own auto insurance policy, they may also have access to uninsured motorist insurance.
Getting Legal Help Following a Fatal Hit and Run Accident
When a hit and run driver is not located, they cannot be held accountable for their actions. The loss of a loved one is emotionally devastating and has far-reaching effects on family members. After a fatal Las Vegas hit and run accident, family members would be well-advised to speak with an experienced and reputable Las Vegas wrongful death lawyer who can make sure their legal rights are protected.
LV Personal Injury Lawyers offers a free consultation to discuss your case and answer your questions.
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