With a variety of transportation options available today, elderly citizens are able to continue living active lives far into their twilight years. Unfortunately, for those who choose them as their method of transportation, motorized scooters are fraught with the same kind of dangers as faced by those on bicycles and on foot when traveling on America’s roadways. Scooters can be easy for drivers to overlook due to their small profiles and close proximity to the ground. On Veterans Day, which is designated to honor members of the armed forces for their service, an elderly veteran was tragically killed by an allegedly negligent driver while driving a motorized scooter on the side of a California road.

According to a recent lawsuit filed by the man’s three sons, they are suing the driver for wrongful death in the accident that took their father’s life. The wreck occurred at approximately 1:30 p.m. on November 11 of 2015. A man driving a company vehicle, who was working at the time, hit the elderly gentleman while he was riding on his motorized scooter on a local street in Signal Hill.

The suit alleges that the driver of the vehicle that hit the man was driving negligently. In addition, the suit states that the driver’s employer also shares some liability for the man’s death. The sons are seeking unspecified damages due to the loss of companionship and the financial support he was providing to his family.

The driver in this situation may face criminal charges, but, regardless of whether charges are filed, surviving family members confronted with similar tragic situations can rightfully pursue wrongful death lawsuits against the drivers in civil court. This may allow them to seek reimbursement for medical bills, loss of income and expenses that incur as a result of an accident caused by a negligent driver. Speeding, driving while distracted, failing to yield or stop, or disobeying any other rule of the road can be considered negligent or reckless behavior, depending on the situation. An attorney who is well-versed in California traffic laws and personal injury laws could guide a victim or family in how to pursue restitution.

Source: mynewsla.com, “Truck kills 91-year-old WWII vet on motorized scooter: Sons sue“, July 14, 2016