Stockton, CA – On Sunday, February 25, 2024, a pedestrian crossing Highway 88 was struck and killed by the patrol car of a San Joaquin County Sheriff’s deputy near Stockton, according to CBS13.
Investigations indicate that the deputy was traveling eastbound on Highway 88, also known as Waterloo Road, near the Taco Bell at Piccoli Road, when they struck the pedestrian. Following the impact, the deputy called for assistance and attempted life-saving measures on the victim. Medical services arrived and pronounced the pedestrian dead at the scene.
While authorities processed the crime scene, a second vehicle plowed through the crime tape. Witnesses report that the vehicle struck the victim’s body, which was still lying in the road, before speeding off.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Motorists are required to exercise an additional “duty of care” towards pedestrians due to their heightened vulnerability in car accidents, which more often result in fatalities.
In cases where a driver is found responsible for a pedestrian fatality, the victim’s family may have grounds to initiate a wrongful death claim through the driver’s insurance provider. Compensation from a wrongful death claim can help cover medical costs, burial expenses, and the financial support lost by dependents of the deceased.
Should the driver escape justice, compensation may be available from a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine what the best options are.
