John Morgan Killed in Odessa, TX, Hit-and-run Accident
Odessa, TX -- December 31, 2016, John Morgan killed as the result of an accident where he was struck by a vehicle while walking. The driver fled.
Odessa authorities responded to the accident scene in the early morning of Saturday. According to their reports, Morgan was walking along Golder Avenue.
As Morgan attempted to cross the roadway, a gray Jeep Cherokee struck him in the roadway. He sustained fatal injuries, and he died shortly after the collision.
Responding emergency officials located the suspect vehicle near the scene of the accident, but the driver was gone. Police did not say if any suspects are being sought after at this time.
Currently, police have not released any additional information. Investigations are ongoing.
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Commentary
Hit-and-run accidents are always tough for everyone involved, and it's a shame to see people try and get out of taking responsibility for their actions. When it comes to personal injury and wrongful death law, hit-and-run accidents depend heavily on whether or not the suspect is located.
Our firm has investigated hit-and-run accidents in the past, and sometimes the driver is never located. It's an unfortunate reality yet an all too common one. There are times, however, where things work out for the best. Sometimes police are able to locate the driver, sometimes our own private investigations reveal previously unknown identifying information, and sometimes the driver turns themselves in.
One thing to remember is that if the driver is located and charged with a criminal offense, this does not entitle the victim or their family to automatic compensation. Criminal law and civil law are separate entities, so seeking restitution from the at-fault driver is the responsibility of the victims. There have been cases where people only sought our services after a lengthy trial because they thought a conviction would help them. By that time, the statute of limitations passed, and they received nothing.
No matter what the accident is--regardless of whether or not someone was charged--it takes an experienced professional to guide one through the compensation process. In order to hold a negligent driver accountable, it takes a solid case built on a foundation of tangible and irrefutable evidence. A police report or a criminal charge by itself is not enough. With the right evidence and experienced representation, victims and their families have the opportunity to hold these drivers accountable for their actions and seek the compensation they deserve.
--Grossman Law Offices
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