A woman is facing charges of hit-and-run following a collision in Shallotte on early Tuesday morning.
Law enforcement responded to the 4700 block of Main Street around 5 a.m. regarding a pedestrian involved in a motor vehicle accident. Upon arrival, officers discovered an unresponsive male lying on the road and provided medical assistance until emergency services arrived.
Tragically, the man succumbed to his injuries and his identity has not yet been revealed, pending notification of his family.
According to authorities, the driver responsible for the collision initially fled but later surrendered herself to police. She was identified as Blanca Mayel Montiel-Perez and faces charges of felony hit-and-run resulting in death and misdemeanor failure to provide aid at an accident.
Montiel-Perez was taken into custody with a $25,000 bond at Brunswick County Jail.
FATAL ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION
In most cases involving hit-and-runs, the at-fault drivers feel they can avoid the consequences of their actions if they leave the scene. However, a suspect will face charges when apprehended.
Leaving the scene of an accident is a crime, but sadly statistics indicate that more than one hit-and-run crash occurs every minute on U.S. roads.
Candice Bond, an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney, said in such cases is imperative to have an independent investigation conducted by a seasoned attorney promptly to protect the rights of a victim.
“Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a hit-and-run accident case and prove negligence,” said Bond, a Managing Partner of Bond Legal.
“Road conditions, visibility, and lighting are all possible contributing factors considered and examined,” said Bond.
These procedures are necessary for helping someone who has lost a loved one at the hands of a hit-and-run driver receive the justice and monetary compensation they deserve.
WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM
Pending the investigation, the family of the victim may be entitled to a wrongful death claim for funeral expenses, the loss of love and companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma.
“An incident is considered a wrongful death when either a person or entity commits a wrongful or negligent act resulting in death,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “When vehicle accident fatalities result from unsafe driving, aggressive or distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence, family members are usually left with the option to pursue a civil action against the responsible motorist.”