• 17
  • October
    2011

A tragic accident occurred recently in the driveway of a South Houston home. A 55-year-old man ran over his 14-month-old niece while backing his pickup truck out of the driveway. The girl was transported to Memorial Hermann Hospital, but was later pronounced dead. Police have said no criminal charges will be filed in the auto accident.

Evidently what happened is the man, the uncle of the little girl, was moving his car out of the driveway so that his wife could sweep under the car port. He did not realize the toddler had followed him out of the house to the car. As he backed up, the girl got caught underneath the left rear tire. She was rushed to the hospital by Lite Flight, but her life could not be saved.

Cases like these are tragic, especially so as it involves a man and his niece. There is no compensation available to the family that can make amends for their loss, but the law does allow for monetary damages. In similar cases involving the death of loved ones, a wrongful death lawsuit may be appropriate if family members decide to pursue a civil action.

A wrongful death is a death caused by the negligent or willful conduct of another. Wrongful death damages can compensate the family of the victim for their pain and suffering as well as for lost wages and medical bills if applicable. Houston residents considering a wrongful death suit may benefit from consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney, who may be able to assist the family with collecting full and fair compensation for their loss. Even when no criminal charges are filed, civil damages may still be applicable.

Source: KTRK-TV, "Toddler killed in driveway accident," Sept. 29, 2011