Hit and run accidents have become an unfortunate reality in Missouri. Though many drivers who leave the scene of pedestrian accidents do so because they are afraid of the consequences, this is still unacceptable. A former sheriff’s deputy was recently charged with leaving the scene of a crash after allegedly striking a pedestrian on his way home in January.

The accident occurred late in the evening. The man who allegedly hit the pedestrian claimed that he realized his vehicle hit something when he heard a loud noise. He stated that he was inebriated when the crash happened and was afraid to see what he hit. Instead of stopping, the man kept driving until he reached his home.

The victim was later found dead. When the driver read the news of the crash, he called the sheriff and reportedly admitted to being the cause of the incident. Investigators then found damage consistent with that expected in hitting a person. The man was charged with leaving the scene of a crash and has since waived his right to a preliminary hearing.

Though criminal charges have already been filed, the victim’s family could also file a wrongful death claim in civil court. If their claim should succeed, the family could then receive monetary damages that could help cover funeral costs and any other financial expenses related to the incident. Any Missouri residents who have lost loved ones in pedestrian accidents can consult experienced personal injury attorneys to learn more information about filing claims.

Source: ky3.com, “Man charged with leaving scene of fatal crash waives proof hearing“, Emily Wood, April 11, 2017