Losing a loved one in a crash is naturally a traumatic experience for the surviving family members. The fact that many car accidents were preventable makes it even tougher for families to work through. It is only natural to seek justice after such a loss; however, nothing can bring that person back. The family of a New Jersey pedestrian who died after being struck by a texting driver may find no comfort in the fact that the driver might spend 10 years in prison after she was convicted in a New Jersey criminal court.
The criminal charges arose from an incident that led to the death of a 39-year-old pedestrian in a crosswalk. According to court documents, surveillance footage shows the woman’s car rear-ending another car with enough force send the second car propelling into the crosswalk. That car struck the pedestrian, who died in the hospital of his injuries five days later.
Reportedly, accident investigators determined that the driver was busy texting at the time of impact. Their report also indicates that there was no evidence of any brake marks that might show some effort to avoid the accident. The driver was subsequently convicted on vehicular homicide charges based on a New Jersey law that became effective in 2012.
While the family of the deceased pedestrian might feel the outcome of this criminal case against the texting driver brings some level of justice, it still leaves them facing the unanticipated financial consequences. Fortunately, the New Jersey civil justice system allows surviving family members to pursue claims for financial relief by filing a wrongful death lawsuit. An attorney with experience in dealing with personal injury and wrongful death claims after car accidents can provide valuable support and guidance throughout ensuing legal proceedings.