Losing a young child in a crash is likely one of the most traumatic experiences parents can experience. This was the fate of a Pennsylvania family whose 8-year-old son was recently killed in an auto accident in Westmoreland County. Police reported that the fatality occurred in Derry Township.
An accident report indicates that the child was in an SUV with his father, who had stopped at a red traffic light on Route 22. Their vehicle was then rear-ended by another car. The driver of that car was a 31-year-old man, and police determined that there were bench warrants out for his arrest in another state. His criminal record allegedly includes prior motor vehicle violations along with theft and drug violations.
The force of the impact when he smashed into the rear of the SUV was severe enough to trap the boy inside. After he had been extricated, he was rushed to a hospital. Sadly, he succumbed to his injuries later.
The family of this child will naturally struggle to cope with the death of their child, and they will also have to face the financial consequences of this fatal auto accident. Should they choose to do so, a wrongful death claim may be filed in a Pennsylvania civil court. The boy’s parents will have to establish negligence on the part of the other driver, which appears clear from the preliminary reports. After financial liability has been determined by the court, it will consider all documented claims for financial losses before entering a monetary judgment.
Source: CBS Pittsburgh, “Boy, 8, Killed In Westmoreland County Vehicle Accident“, Ross Guidotti, June 28, 2016