Washington residents know how dangerous the roads have become, particularly for pedestrians. Recently, a 15-year-old girl was hit by a car while she was crossing the street at a crosswalk in Puyallup. According to reports, she was in the crosswalk when she was struck by a vehicle, believed to be an SUV. The driver continued on after the accident and was not immediately apprehended.
The girl was hospitalized at a Tacoma hospital and was reportedly recovering from her injuries. The extent of her injuries was not immediately known. The reports indicates that the hit and run driver was traveling at a high rate of speed and kept driving even after the victim was hit.
It is hoped that the driver of this horrific accident will be tracked down and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Although this driver may face criminal charges as a result of this accident, a civil lawsuit may also be a result from this reckless behavior.
If someone is injured or dies as a result of another party’s negligence, the victim may be entitled to recover compensation for their injuries. They may seek compensation for lost wages due to their injuries, reimbursement of medical expenses, compensation for future medical costs, damages for pain and suffering endured as a result of the accident and compensation for any permanent impairment or disability that results from the accident. Depending on the circumstances, it may also be possible to seek punitive damages if extreme recklessness or disregard for safety can be proven.
Source: kirotv.com, “Teen hurt in Puyallup hit-and-run still recovering at hospital”, Levi Pulkkinen, March 21, 2013