“Accidents happen” is a common phrase that we tell our children when they do small things such as spill milk or knock over a vase of flowers. Unfortunately for those who find themselves in automobile accidents, the phrase doesn’t have quite the same comforting feeling. Instead, it only serves to remind us of the frequently tragic reality of daily life. No matter how careful we are or what precautions we take when driving, accidents can happen.
A Massachusetts bicyclist was killed in a trucking accident when a garbage truck driver struck him and left him on the side of the road. A Swampscott man was later charged in connection with the hit-and-run accident, which happened in Charlestown. Tragedies like this often have far-reaching consequences for the families of those involved. If, for example, the bicyclist had a family that relied on his paycheck, their financial future may now be called into question.
While nothing can bring back the life of the unfortunate bicyclist, monetary compensation can help any family members the victim may have left behind. In addition to funeral expenses, the victim’s family will be able to stay afloat long enough to pursue other financial avenues. However, in order to receive any compensation, parties must prove their loved one’s death was caused by someone else’s negligence.
Particularly in cases where there are no witnesses, it is extremely important to secure legal assistance to help prove your case. Modern technology and some creative thinking can help a family meet the burden of proof needed in civil cases. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a bicycle accident, and you believe that you were not at fault, effective legal counsel can help you present your case to the courts and hopefully get you the compensation you deserve.
Source: Boston Herald, “Truck driver charged in fatal Charlestown accident,” John Zaremba, April 4, 2014
