Los Angeles, CA (July 18, 2024) – On Tuesday, July 16, 2024, in downtown Los Angeles, a tragic hit-and-run accident claimed the life of 64-year-old Joseph Benson.
Accident Details and Ongoing Investigation: The incident occurred early in the morning on Fourth Street near Wall Street. Benson was walking in the street near Wall Street when a vehicle turned left onto Fourth Street and struck him. The driver fled the scene, and no vehicle description is available. Los Angeles Fire Department personnel responded to the scene and pronounced Benson dead. The accident is being investigated.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination. First, the investigation will focus on finding the driver who struck Benson. Hit-and-run accidents are difficult cases because the driver’s identity is often unknown. If found, the driver may face serious criminal consequences for his actions. Benson’s family may also be able to file a civil claim against the driver for the death of Benson. This claim is called a wrongful death claim, which allows victim’s families to recover compensation for the death of their loved one, such as funeral and burial expenses and loss of financial support.
Another aspect is determining if Benson was in the crosswalk or outside of one. If he was not in the crosswalk, this may indicate some level of responsibility for the accident. However, this act would not necessarily deprive his family of compensation for his death because California follows the doctrine of comparative negligence, which, while not prohibiting recovery, would reduce the recoverable compensation.
My sincerest condolences are with the family and friends of Joseph Benson during this difficult time.
Source: My News LA