A 13-year-old girl in Hawaii was recently involved in a horrific accident that left her mourning the untimely loss of her grandmother. An arrest has been made in the case and multiple charges filed. Sadly, the child’s grandmother, a 57-year-old woman, was pronounced dead at the scene. Tragic car accidents like the one in this case often result in the devastation of the lives of those involved.
The recent tragedy occurred in Makaha on a Sunday. A witness described hearing a loud crash and squealing tires. He also stated that a vehicle had been seen swerving in and out of oncoming traffic lanes moments before the fatal collision. At some point, it appears that the weaving vehicle left the traffic lane and struck the young girl and her grandmother as they walked along the shoulder of the road.
According to reports, the girl suffered serious injuries but was hesitant to leave her grandmother’s side; she is said to have repeatedly called out her grandmother’s name, with no response. The 21-year-old driver of the vehicle that allegedly struck the two pedestrians reportedly fled the scene of the accident. Police later placed him under arrest at his place of residence. He now faces multiple charges, including DUI, first-degree negligent homicide and accidental death.
Parents or legal guardians of children injured in Hawaii car accidents caused by other motorists are able to file legal claims on behalf of their children. In the case of a death, an immediate family member who survives the decedent may pursue a wrongful death claim on his or her behalf in a civil court. In successfully litigated cases, compensatory awards may be offered that can help victims absorb the cost of medical bills, funeral expenses or other costs related to an accident.
Source: hawaiinewsnow.com, “Makaha man arrested in fatal hit-and-run pedestrian accident“, Chelsea Davis, May 31, 2015