Lincoln Co., NC (July 17, 2024) – Emergency crews were called to the scene of a motor vehicle accident that occurred in Lincoln County and claimed one person’s life. The collision took place at around 720 a.m. on Monday, July 15.
Official reports show that a Dodge Ram pickup truck was heading westbound on North Carolina 10. As the vehicle proceeded through the area near North Carolina 18, it failed to stop at a stop sign. As a result, the vehicle proceeded forward and collided with a Dodge van. The impact of the collision caused the van to overturn. For people inside of the Dodge Ram were injured. The victims were transported to area hospitals for emergency care. The driver of the van, identified as 59-year-old Barry McKee, was fatally injured. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Dodge, identified as José Morenos, was arrested and charged with misdemeanor death by vehicle, failure to yield, and no operator’s license. At this time, the incident is under investigation.
We offer our sympathies to the family of Barry McKee.
Fatal Auto Wrecks in North Carolina
In the United States, more than 40,000 lives are lost each year due to motor vehicle accidents. This staggering number highlights the need for increased awareness and improved safety measures on our roads. Unfortunately, our state also witnesses numerous avoidable accidents resulting in loss of life annually. These tragic incidents often leave families devastated and struggling to cope with the sudden and unexpected loss of their loved ones.
When an innocent victim falls prey to another party’s negligence or misconduct on the road, surviving family members may pursue financial compensation by initiating a legal claim against the accountable party. This compensation can assist in covering funeral costs, medical expenses, and lost income and offer some financial stability during a challenging period. In addition, it serves as a form of justice, holding the responsible parties accountable for their actions and potentially deterring future negligent behavior.
To effectively pursue a wrongful death claim, four crucial elements must be established: duty of care (the responsible party had a duty of care), breach of duty (they failed to fulfill this obligation), causation (their actions directly caused the fatality), and damages (the specific losses endured as a consequence). Establishing these elements often requires thorough investigation, including gathering police reports, witness statements, and expert testimony.
Seeking guidance from a knowledgeable North Carolina wrongful death attorney can greatly simplify the process of navigating through these intricate legal proceedings. They will assist in gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance firms or the attorneys of the at-fault parties, and ensuring your rights are safeguarded throughout the procedure. An experienced attorney can also help you understand the nuances of state-specific laws and ensure that all legal requirements and deadlines are met.
Furthermore, a compassionate attorney can provide emotional support and guidance during this difficult time, helping families make informed decisions while honoring their loved one’s memory. Whether through settlement negotiations or courtroom litigation, a dedicated wrongful death attorney will fight tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family.
The sudden loss of a loved one in a car accident can be overwhelming and devastating. At Ted Greve & Associates, we acknowledge the sorrow and uncertainty that accompanies such a tragedy. Our dedicated team is here to offer you compassionate support and advocate for justice on behalf of your loved one. We are committed to providing tailored guidance and assertive representation as you navigate the legal process and seek closure for your loved one’s passing. Please feel free to contact us at (800) 693-7833 for a complimentary consultation if you require assistance during this challenging time. Together, we can strive towards holding those accountable for their actions and honoring the memory of your loved one.
