Whether in California or some other state, people typically feel safe in their own homes. One of the last things anyone would expect is to be struck by a vehicle while inside their domiciles. However, this is exactly what happened to a family in Long Beach recently, and it claimed the life of a man and his young daughter.
Accident details
Around 10 p.m. on March 1, the Long Beach Police Department responded to a call of a vehicle having crashed into an apartment building. The apartment was located on Rose Avenue in the 6600 block, near Artesia Boulevard. Several people were inside the apartment when the crash occurred. The vehicle was described as a 2014 Dodge Ram pickup.
Among those inside were a 43-year-old man and his 3-year-old daughter. Authorities declared the man dead at the scene, but the 3-year-old was taken to a local medical center, where she later succumbed to her injuries. The suspect driver of the pickup fled the scene on foot and is being sought by police. Officials believe speed was a contributing factor in the crash.
Wrongful death claims
Should authorities locate the suspect, he or she may face wrongful death claims from the surviving family of the deceased man and his young daughter. It is a terrible tragedy and no amount of compensation will replace the lives lost, but a successfully navigated case and award can help with things like medical costs, funeral expenses and loss of income. Affected parties will want to work closely with an experienced personal injury attorney in California to increase their chances of obtaining a successful outcome.