A Jimmy John’s delivery driver hit and killed a young boy riding his bicycle.
The driver hit and killed Blake Huffman, 5, while Blake was riding his bike in front of his home. In addition to the grief they will suffer because of the loss, his family will also have to deal with the fact that Blake’s siblings and father witnessed the accident.
Recovery in this Case
Unfortunately, there is no sum of money that can make up for the loss of a loved one. However, our civil justice system allows surviving family members to seek compensation from those persons or business responsible for the tragedy. Understanding how insurance applies in situations like this is vital to determining what a family can recover for their loss.
In a situation involving a business vehicle such as this, there may be multiple insurance policies a family can collect from. It is vital to hire an attorney who has the experience needed to investigate and identify all applicable insurance policies. Once they have identified all potential insurance policies, an attorney will make claims on behalf of the family to try and recover the insurance proceeds without having to file a lawsuit. Sometimes, however, a lawsuit is needed so that both sides can determine the full extent of damages sustained.
In the above story, the family will likely make claims against the fast-food company’s business insurance policy. Not only that, they may also make claims against the personal automobile policy of the employee/driver. Generally, businesses carry insurance coverage of at least $1,000,000, if not more. Personal auto policies, on the other hand, vary and are typically for lesser amounts. Auto policies can range anywhere from $25,000 to $250,000. The driver may also carry “umbrella” coverage, which if purchased by the insured, would provide another source of recovery for the family.
Contact Monsees & Mayer
Understanding the “ins and outs” of insurance coverage in the context of wrongful death is complex. Therefore, it may require the assistance of an attorney. The team at Monsees & Mayer regularly handles insurance coverage disputes. We have obtained significant insurance awards and settlements for families who have lost a loved one. We are here to help. Contact us today.