While behind the wheel, drivers have many responsibilities. Drivers must remain alert and aware of other vehicles as well as pedestrians. Failure to do so can result in a car or pedestrian accident in which an individual is injured or killed.

Ohio police continue to investigate a recent fatal pedestrian accident that claimed the life of a 63-year-old man. Upon leaving a gas station, the 63-year-old man was walking home when he was struck by a pickup truck.

The accident occurred around 8 p.m. as the man was attempting to cross the street at an intersection. A pickup truck apparently did not see the man and struck him. Paramedics rushed the man to the hospital where medical personnel attempted to treat his numerous injuries. Sadly, doctors and nurses were unable to save the man and he died shortly after arriving at the hospital.

According to the police report, the 63-year-old attempted to cross the street at an intersection where there is no crosswalk. To date, police have not arrested or charged the driver of the pickup truck who hit the man.

Car and pedestrian accidents often result in those pedestrians hit sustaining severe or fatal injuries. While it's unclear what may have lead to this specific accident, it's likely the driver of the vehicle did not see the man until it was too late. Pedestrians who are out at night must be especially vigilant in ensuring they are visible to drivers. Likewise, drivers must always be aware of their surroundings and keep watch for possible pedestrians.

In this case, the family of the pedestrian who was killed may chose to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the driver of the pickup truck. A wrongful death claim can help family members recover compensation to help cover costs associated with the sudden death of a loved one.

Source: News Net 5, "Man, 63, died after being hit by car in Canton," Cedra Mayfield, Oct. 24, 2012