Life can change in an instant. One moment a person is out for a walk, simply crossing the street, and in the next he is struck by a car and suffers serious injury. In Wilmington, and all across North Carolina, the law is clear. People who are minding their own business, and fall victim to a car accident caused by the negligence of another, are often entitled to compensation for their injury. Often the victim may be entitled to be compensated for their medical expenses, lost wages and sometimes the pain and suffering endured.
A 21-year-old University of North Carolina student who graduated from East Rowan High School was the victim of a hit and run accident last month in Wilmington. He was rushed to New Hanover Regional Medical Center, where he was listed in critical condition with serious internal injuries.
Police say the victim was crossing South College Road at about 1:00 a.m. when he was struck by a gold car. The vehicle did not stop. The family has maintained a vigil at the hospital, and the victim’s fraternity brothers are also staying with the family.
A damaged gold-colored car mirror was found at the accident site. The following day police arrested two Wilmington residents after the car was brought to an auto repair shop about an hour away. Police examined the car and then arrested the driver, a 27-year-old woman, for felony hit and run. She was also charged with having an expired car registration and inspection sticker. The passenger was charged with failing to report an accident.
A hit and run car accident can be devastating. Witnesses usually rush to help the victim, but also turn their attention to the at-fault driver speeding away. In this case, the gold car mirror, coupled with some investigative police work, appear to have lead to an appropriate arrest. The driver will now have to answer to the criminal charges filed against her.
For a victim and his or her family, personal injury law can seem a confusing maze of regulations. While the first concern in any accident with serious injury is the recovery of the victim, it is also important to make sure the accident is investigated fully and any evidence or documentation is properly preserved. An attorney experienced in personal injury law may be able to offer help.
Source: The Salisbury Post, “East Rowan grad hurt in hit and run accident,” Nathan Hardin, July 9, 2011
