A tragic hit-and-run incident in Rochester claimed the life of a 70-year-old security guard who had dedicated nearly three decades to protecting others at a local establishment. The victim was fatally struck while crossing South Union Street in the early hours of June 14, just 150 feet from his parked car as he was walking home after work.
The driver who struck the longtime employee fled the scene immediately after the collision. The victim was rushed to Strong Memorial Hospital but tragically died from his injuries. Ten days later, the driver turned himself in to police and was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death. According to prosecutors, this marked the suspect's fifth drunk driving-related arrest, and evidence suggests he had consumed 12 alcoholic drinks over a 2½-hour period before the fatal crash, taking his last drink just six minutes before the collision. You can read the original news report here.
Common Causes of Hit-and-Run Accidents
Hit-and-run accidents can occur for various reasons, often involving dangerous and negligent behavior by drivers. Some of the most common contributing factors include:
- Drunk driving - Impaired drivers may flee to avoid DWI charges or because alcohol affects their judgment
- Distracted driving - Texting, talking on phones, or other distractions can cause drivers to strike pedestrians and panic
- Speeding or reckless driving - Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of impacts
- Uninsured or unlicensed drivers - Those driving illegally may flee to avoid detection
- Outstanding warrants or criminal history - Drivers with legal troubles may flee to avoid arrest
- Drug impairment - Illegal substances can impair judgment and cause drivers to make poor decisions
- Poor visibility conditions - Darkness, weather, or inadequate lighting can contribute to collisions
- Inadequate crosswalk safety measures - Poor street design or lighting can create dangerous conditions for pedestrians
When negligence on behalf of a driver, property owner, or municipality contributes to a hit-and-run accident, victims and their families may be entitled to significant legal compensation.
Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Claims in Rochester, NY Hit-and-Run Cases
Hit-and-run accidents often result in serious personal injuries or wrongful death claims, particularly when the victim is a pedestrian struck by a vehicle. In Rochester and throughout New York State, families who have lost a loved one in such tragic circumstances may pursue wrongful death claims against multiple potentially liable parties.
Potential liable parties in hit-and-run cases can include the negligent driver (once identified), establishments that over-served alcohol to impaired drivers, vehicle owners who allowed intoxicated individuals to drive their cars, and even municipalities if inadequate lighting or poorly designed crosswalks contributed to the accident. Compensation in these cases may include medical expenses, funeral costs, lost wages and future earnings, pain and suffering endured by the victim, and loss of companionship for surviving family members. While no amount of money can bring back a loved one, pursuing legal action holds negligent parties accountable and can provide financial security for grieving families.
Damages and Compensation in Hit-and-Run Cases
Understanding the types of compensation available in hit-and-run accidents is crucial for families seeking justice.
Economic damages cover quantifiable losses such as medical bills, funeral expenses, lost wages, and future earnings the victim would have provided to their family.
Non-economic damages address the pain and suffering endured by the victim, as well as the emotional trauma and loss of companionship experienced by surviving family members.
In cases involving repeat offenders or particularly egregious conduct, punitive damages may also be available to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior. Compensation is calculated based on various factors including the victim's age, earning capacity, life expectancy, and the circumstances of the accident. Evidence such as medical records, employment history, witness testimony, and accident reconstruction reports all play vital roles in building a strong case. The primary purpose of compensation is to restore what was lost as much as possible, hold negligent parties accountable, and prevent future tragedies through deterrence.
If you or someone you love has been affected by a hit-and-run accident, don't face this difficult time alone. Contact the experienced legal team at Porter Law Group for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn about your legal options. Our proven track record of success in personal injury cases can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve during this challenging time.
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Why Choose Porter Law Group?
The attorneys at Porter Law Group have decades of experience representing individuals and families whose lives have been devastated by tragic accidents and wrongful death cases. We have secured some of the largest settlements and verdicts in courts throughout New York State, and we bring both state-wide resources and a personal, hometown approach to every case we handle.
Our clients turn to us during their darkest hours, seeking guidance, answers, and justice. With seasoned trial lawyers who understand the complexities of hit-and-run and wrongful death cases, Porter Law Group has the resources and determination necessary to take on major insurance companies that will fight to minimize your compensation. We know their tactics, and we're prepared to counter them at every step.
You only get one opportunity to choose the right legal representation for you and your family. Choose the firm most recommended by former clients and local attorneys—the firm that consistently obtains superior results. When your life has been turned upside down by a serious personal injury or tragic loss in New York, don't make your legal decision without first calling Porter Law Group to discover why so many clients are grateful they trusted us during their time of greatest need.
Contact a Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney in New York
If you've been injured or lost a loved one in a hit-and-run accident in New York, don't wait to seek experienced legal representation. The dedicated team at Porter Law Group is here to provide the compassionate support and aggressive advocacy you need during this difficult time. We offer free initial consultations and will guide you through every aspect of the legal process while you focus on healing and rebuilding your life.
Contact us today at 833-PORTER9 or email us at info@porterlawteam.com to schedule your free consultation. We serve clients throughout New York State and are ready to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Don't let insurance companies minimize your claim—reach out to us today and let our proven legal expertise work for you.
