Memorial Day traditionally is the unofficial start of summer, but with warmer weather comes an increase in fatal car accidents. This past Memorial Day saw the death of a pedestrian attempting to cross a highway late at night. A Lorton, Virginia, man stands accused of striking and killing a man crossing Coastal Highway. The man was pronounced dead at Peninsula Regional Medical Center.
According to police, the motorist continued driving even after his car collided with the other man, who was only 22 years old. Witnesses tailed the driver’s vehicle, and authorities were eventually able to apprehend the hit-and-run offender.
Ocean City, Maryland, police took the driver into custody, and charged him with several serious offenses: driving under the influence and driving while intoxicated, homicide by motor vehicle while intoxicated, and leaving the scene of a fatal collision.
Law enforcement also charged the driver with several other traffic-related violations. Speed may have also been an issue. Preliminary investigation points to a driver who was traveling above the posted limit at the time of the crash.
In Virginia, if an individual is serious or fatally injured by a negligent driver, that person or their loved ones may be entitled to compensation. Medical bills, loss of future wages and loss of companionship are just some potential claims under which to recover.
The negligent decisions of one driver, whether it be excessively speeding, or driving recklessly or leaving the scene of an accident, can cause substantial injuries and sometimes fatalities. The victims of such dangerous decisions have the right to recover for their resulting loss.
Source: WTOP, “Man arrested for fatal hit-and-run in Ocean City,” May 28, 2012,
