Late last month, a Toyota Highlander and a PT cruiser were involved in an automobile accident along Wisconsin 172. A 26-year-old man stopped to assist passengers in the Toyota. As he and an unidentified third party were helping the victims of the accident, they were struck by a passing Chevrolet minivan, resulting in the wrongful death of the good Samaritan.

The impact sent the man and the other person flying from the overpass. Both were injured. However, the 26-year-old man later died from his injuries. Miraculously, the other person did not suffer life-threatening injuries.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the accident. However, this story shows what can happen in the blink of an eye. Drivers need to remain attentive, especially when they come upon an accident. They must also be sure to adjust their driving according to weather conditions.

Someone who is injured in the course of assisting another injured individual may be able to recover compensation from the person who caused the accident. If a good Samaritan is injured by a third party while providing assistance to a person in need, he or she may also have a claim for damages against that person. In a wrongful death situation, the victim’s family may wish to seek compensation for damages that include medical bills, funeral costs and lost earning potential.

Dealing with the death of a loved one can be overwhelming. For that reason, it is often best to work with an experienced attorney as families pursue wrongful death action.

Source: Green Bay Press Gazette, ” Howard man dies of injuries from Bellevue accident,” Feb. 3, 2013