As gas prices rise and concern about how the use of nonrenewable resources affects the environment, more and more people have turned to environmental and budget-friendly alternatives. One such option is a moped because they are cheaper than cars and use less gas. Just as with bicycles and motorcycles, other drivers need to take additional precautions when a moped is in the area. However, if an accident does happen, proper aid must be provided. Unfortunately, a North Carolina couple is accused of a hit and run accident in a situation that could lead to a wrongful death case.
In late May, a driver noticed a motorcycle helmet in the road. Upon investigation, the driver also found a damaged moped and debris from a car. Emergency responders were contacted. An injured, but alive, 58-year-old man was found on the side of the road, but he later died at the hospital. Police were able to identify the make and model of the car that struck the moped from the debris left at the scene of the accident.
A husband and wife were later arrested for the hit-and-run. The man, and alleged driver, faces charges related to manslaughter, hit and run, and driving on a revoked license. The wife faces charges related to aiding and abetting.
Though the couple faces criminal charges, the family of the deceased man could also consider filing a wrongful death case in a North Carolina civil court. If the court determines that the couple negligently caused the man’s death, the court could order a monetary award to offset the financial burden caused by the man’s death, including the cost of a funeral and loss of income. While the money is poor compensation for the grief experienced after the loss of a loved one, a successful litigation could help relieve a great deal of financial stress placed on the family through no fault of their own.
Source: wncn.com, “Husband and wife arrested in fatal Wilson Co. hit-and-run,” May 25, 2013