Driver charged for fatally striking Alton woman in hit-and-run

On Behalf of Johnston Law Offices P.C   |   Dec 7, 2012   |   Hit-and-Run Accidents ,

One of the most frustrating types of car accidents for victims and their loved ones here in Illinois are hit-and-run accidents. It can be very difficult to cope in the aftermath of such accidents because victims are angry that the person who caused the accident did not have the courage or respect to come forward and accept responsibility. In addition to the emotional toll, there is also a very tangible cost tied to such car accidents. Because the person who caused the accident ran from responsibility, the victims may find themselves at a loss to pay for their medical bills and property damage.

However, many Southern Illinois drivers do have insurance coverage for such situations on their own auto insurance policies. Additionally, in many cases the hit-and-run driver is ultimately apprehended and it is then possible to file a civil claim to hold him or her liable for personal injury or wrongful death. Just this past Monday a Granite City woman was charged for a hit-and-run crash that killed an East Alton pedestrian over the weekend.

The body of the 50-year-old victim was found by passing motorists Saturday morning in the northbound lanes of Illinois Route 3 in Granite City. Police believe that the victim was in the area Friday evening looking for a ride home. It is not clear exactly what time she was struck by a driver, but police believe it was about several hours before her body was discovered.

A 23-year-old woman was arrested Sunday in connection with the pedestrian hit-and-run and her vehicle was impounded. On Monday she was charged with failure to report an accident involving death, a felony.

Now that the suspect is in custody, authorities will work to hold her criminally accountable for her actions. The victim’s loved ones may now also choose to file a wrongful death lawsuit in order to hold her responsible even further and obtain compensation for funeral expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and other costs related to the tragic loss.

Source: The Telegraph, “Motorist charged in pedestrian’s death,” Dec. 3, 2012