A tragic accident occurred earlier this month that resulted in the death of a toddler and has undoubtedly changed the life of a 17-year-old forever. The fatal accident occurred in Port Marion, Pennsylvania and involved a dirt bike.

Police indicate that the 2-year-old boy was riding in the lap of the older family friend who was operating the dirt bike. As they left an alley and entered Stella Street, rather than stop, the dirt bike reportedly collided with an SUV. The force of the impact threw the young boy from the bike. Sadly, the toddler's injuries were so severe that he succumbed to them.

Neither the teen nor the toddler were wearing helmets at the time of the incident.

It is not clear what, if any, injuries the 17-year-old incurred. Whether he was hurt or not, it is likely the young man's life will never be the same. According to the Fayette County Deputy Coroner, the accident was due to carelessness on the part of the teen. If state police agree, the young man could face criminal charges related to the incident.

In actuality, the teen could face more than just a criminal case. Should a wrongful death lawsuit be filed against the man for his role in the accident, he would have to deal with a civil proceeding as well.

The pain the family of the toddler is likely feeling at the loss is most certainly indescribable. While filing a civil lawsuit against the operator of the dirt bike would in itself probably be difficult to do, in the end it may provide the closure necessary to move forward.

Source: KDKA, "Teen Could Face Charges In Fatal Dirt Bike Crash," July 7, 2012