A hit-and-run accident just before midnight on Feb. 23 led to the arrest of a 26-year-old New Jersey man. As in the case of other New Jersey auto-pedestrian accidents, it appears as if alcohol may have played a role in the crash. It is reported that when arrested, the driver of the vehicle appeared to be under the influence, and officers stated that they could smell alcohol on his breath.
According to a report of the incident, the victim, whose name was released, was hit by a vehicle a minute before midnight in the vicinity of a shopping center. Police responding to the hit-and-run found the victim with injuries similar to those of other victims of auto-pedestrian accidents. The man died at the scene of the accident.
Not long after this, police found a stationary vehicle with extensive damage to its front, indicating a possible involvement in an auto-pedestrian accident. The man believed to be the driver of the vehicle was arrested. He was charged with several counts, including leaving the scene of a fatal accident. Police are calling on persons with information regarding the incident to assist them in their investigation.
Although the driver of the vehicle has been charged criminally, the estate of the victim may choose to institute a civil wrongful death claim. In New Jersey the families of victims of auto-pedestrian accidents have the option to initiate such a claim. A successful wrongful death claim may help families overcome financial difficulties arising from the death of the victim.
Source: nj.com, Man struck, killed pedestrian in Rockaway Township hit-and-run, prosecutor says, Meghan Shapiro Hodgin, Feb. 24, 2014
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