Car accidents often cause damage to people and property. In the case of fatal accidents, the ultimate damage is done when someone loses their life. This past week a man named James Dunn lost his life as a result of a fatal accident.
Dunn, 61, was riding his motorcycle down Petroleum Drive early one morning. As Jerrick Treyvon Sim, 24, exited a driveway, he entered the lane in which Dunn was already traveling. Sim’s vehicle collided with Dunn and he was ejected from his motorcycle. Dunn was immediately taken to the hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Sim is now facing negligent homicide charges for his part in the accident. He was taken to East Baton Rouge Parish Prison. The preliminary investigation did not reveal any impairment on the part of the driver or the motorcyclist.
It is not known if Dunn has any surviving family members who are seeking compensation for his loss. In the state of Louisiana, certain people have a legal right to bring a wrongful death claim. The children or spouse of the deceased person can bring a claim. If the deceased had no children or spouse, parents can pursue a claim.
The unexpected cost of funeral expenses, medical expenses and lost income can irreversibly damage a family’s finances. Though money is never a replacement for the life of a loved one, compensation can help family to put their finances back in order. Getting the right information about legal options should be a top priority of family members who find themselves in this type of unfortunate situation.
Source: www.nola.com, “Man charged with negligent homicide in fatal motorcycle crash,” Quincy Hodges, Aug. 29, 2013
