A family in our community who lost a loved one in a hit-and-run crash is reaching out for help in locating the driver responsible for the wreck.
According to WSVN-TV, the tragic accident took place on February 28 as the 18-year-old victim was walking home with her boyfriend. As the two neared the intersection of 13th Avenue and Northwest 54th Street, the young woman was struck by a car, believed to be a green 2008 Toyota Corolla.
A surveillance video of the incident shows the vehicle swerving in an attempt to avoid hitting the 18-year-old girl and then fleeing the scene following the collision. In addition, at the time of crash, the car reportedly had two “for sale” signs in its windows. A witness recovered a fog lamp that was left behind by the car and handed it over to the police.
Right now, all the girl’s family can do is hope either that the police find the driver or the driver turns himself or herself into authorities.
“I just want to let you know, whoever you are, you really hurt this family,” the victim’s brother told WSVN. “We’re going to find you.”
Anyone who has information regarding the driver or the incident is encouraged to call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Callers can remain anonymous and might be eligible for a reward.
I Lost a Family Member in a Hit-and-Run Wreck. What Can I Do?
While hit-and-run drivers should face criminal charges if they are caught following a wreck, if a hit-and-run driver is arrested, it does not help victims or their families recover the money they need for lost pay, hospital expenses, property damage and rehabilitation costs.
However, if victims or their families file a civil lawsuit against the hit-and-run driver, they may be able to hold him or her accountable for the financial problems they caused.
To learn more about what to do if you or a loved one has been the victim of a hit-and-run accident, visit our motor vehicle accident and wrongful death information pages and watch the video below in which injury lawyer Deborah Gander explains the tactics insurance companies use following accidents.
Colson Hicks Eidson – Injury Attorneys
