Joseph Robinson, 52, Died In Washington DC Hit-And-Run Collision While Crossing New Jersey Avenue
WASHINGTON DC, VIRGINIA (April 12, 2022) – A pedestrian identified as Joseph Robinson has tragically died in a hit-and-run collision while crossing New Jersey Avenue.
Washington DC police officials are saying that the collision took place around 8:15 p.m. on Thursday. Joseph Robinson was walking in a marked crosswalk when he was struck by a vehicle that ran a red light.
That driver did not stop to call the police and is currently being sought by the authorities. DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services were called to the scene in order to help the victim.
Joseph Robinson was taken to the hospital but died not long after being admitted. A full investigation into the accident remains ongoing at this time.
Liability In Washington DC Hit-And-Run Collisions
Hit-and-run collisions are extremely common in the United States. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, there were over 700,000 hit-and-run collisions in 2015. These accidents resulted in 2,049 fatalities and tens of thousands of serious injuries. Hit-and-run collisions are more likely to occur early in the morning and late in the evening when visibility is reduced. There are many other factors that could potentially contribute to a hit-and-run collision.
- Driver intoxication
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Poorly lit crosswalks
All drivers have a responsibility to exercise due care in order to avoid hitting pedestrians. They must also yield at stop signs and traffic control devices. Pursuant to Virginia Vehicle Code § 46.2-833, the driver of a vehicle shall stop at a steady red light as long as the red signal is shown. Any driver that hits a pedestrians after running a red light may be considered liable for the collision under the doctrine of negligence per se.
If a driver flees the scene of a collision after causing bodily injury or death they could face criminal sanctions in addition to civil liability. This could include a felony conviction, fines and jail time. There are a number of steps that can be taken in order to track down a hit-and-run driver.
- Small fragments of the fleeing vehicle can be used to identify the car that left the scene.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
The family of any victim that died in a hit-and-run collision may be able to seek some measure of justice through a wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. It is very important that evidence is properly preserved after a collision. A Washington DC hit-and-run accident attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Washington DC Hit-And-Run Collision
We at TorkLaw extend our deepest sympathies to the family of Joseph Robinson. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to police. The driver responsible for this crash should do the right thing and turn themselves in. It’s never too late to do the right thing.
Do you need more information about a Washington DC hit-and-run collision? Our team of pedestrian safety advocates are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that hit-and-run drivers are captured and held accountable. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (888) 441-4991.
