When working to obtain a driver’s license in Tennessee, residents are taught to avoid distractions, stay focused behind the wheel and drive defensively. Unfortunately, it seems too many people these days throw caution to the wind and drive recklessly. Being involved in a motor vehicle accident is difficult enough, but when the at-fault driver flees the scene, the experience can be devastating for victims and families.
Police searching for driver
Police are continuing to search for a driver who led police on a chase, caused a deadly accident and fled. According to police, a white pickup truck was headed north on Morrow Road when an officer attempted to stop the vehicle because it had no license plate. Reports said the driver sped away, turned right into an alley, went into an open lot then turned onto Michigan Avenue. Police said the officer knew the truck was not going to stop so he turned off his lights and did not pursue.
Reportedly, the driver sped through a stop sign at the intersection of 51st Avenue North and Michigan Avenue and was hit by an SUV. The pickup truck continued and crashed head-on into a utility pole. The truck went airborne and came to rest upside down on top of the utility pole. Authorities said a passenger was partially ejected and died a short time later. The driver of the pickup truck reportedly fled the scene on foot.
Help in the aftermath of an accident
When the pickup truck driver is caught, he will likely be facing serious charges. The immediate family members of the passenger who was killed could have grounds to take legal action against the driver if he is deemed negligent. By speaking with an attorney about filing a wrongful death claim, surviving family members in Tennessee may be able to obtain rightful monetary damages.