Dallas, TX (December 5, 2023) 67-year-old James Smith was killed on Sunday, December 3rd, after he was hit by a tow truck in the Lake Highlands area of Dallas. The Dallas Police Department said the accident happened in a parking lot off Shoreview Road just after 3:00 a.m.
Initial investigation suggests that Smith was having his vehicle told and, for reasons unknown, jumped onto the driver’s side of the tow truck. He fell from the truck and landed on the ground, where he was then run over by the back wheels of the tow truck.
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Paramedics arrived at the scene to find Smith lying on the ground with life-threatening injuries. He was rushed to a local hospital for treatment, but unfortunately, he later died while at the hospital.
The tow truck driver, 25-year-old Roberto Padilla, left the scene and was later found at the Dallas Auto Pound. He was arrested and booked into the Dallas County Jail where he faces charges of Manslaughter.
Investigators are still working this accident to try and determine exactly what happened to cause this tragedy.
Liability In Dallas Pedestrian Accidents
Thousands of pedestrians are killed or seriously injured every year in pedestrian accidents. According to the the Centers for Disease Control, “An estimated 137,000 pedestrians were treated in the emergency departments for nonfatal crash-related injuries in 2017. Per trip, pedestrians are 1.5 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to be killed in a car crash.” There are a number of factors that could lead to a pedestrian collision including:
–Speeding
–Drunk driving
–Driver distraction
–Inclement weather
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid hitting pedestrians. The family of any victim that died in a pedestrian collision may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and suffering. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Pedestrian Accident In Dallas
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of James Smith, who was killed in this horrible accident. Anyone who may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. There needs to be some accountability for what happened.
Have you or someone you care about been injured in a car accident? Our team of personal injury lawyers are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need assistance after an accident, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.