Most Ohio parents want nothing more than to watch their children grow into the people they hope they will become. Sadly, certain situations arise that could make that impossible. For example, some car accidents could not only rob parents of that right, but also rob the children of their parents.
On Dec. 30, 2018, a couple described as “madly in love” died in a car accident. People who knew them describe them as inseparable. Reports from the Ohio State Highway Patrol indicate that as they traveled on the night in question, another vehicle ran threw a stop sign at the intersection the couple’s vehicle was already moving through at the time.
The resulting collision was devastating. The 34-year-old man never left the scene as he succumbed to his injuries there. The 28-year-old woman survived long enough to make it to the hospital, but later died from her injuries.
Between the two of them, they had six children who will not get to grow up with their parents. The 26-year-old man suspected of driving the other vehicle that night is now in police custody. He faces one count of failing to stop and remain at the scene of an accident, along with two counts of aggravated vehicular homicide.
While authorities proceed with the criminal proceedings, the families of the deceased victims may exercise their rights under Ohio law to file wrongful death claims, pursuing restitution for their financial losses. If the evidence proves that the deaths resulted from the negligence of another party, a civil court could award a judgment for monetary damages. As is the case in other car accidents in which children lost their parents, any monies received as a result could help raise the children left behind.
