PORT ORANGE, Fla. – A man was struck and killed by a vehicle around 9:45 p.m. on Wednesday on the 3400 block of Nova Road in Port Orange, authorities said.
The victim has been identified as 37-year-old Joshua SeeSholz, according to the Port Orange Police Department.
The police are investigating the crash and urge anyone with information to contact Traffic Homicide Investigator Slease at 386-506-5838.
What to Do If a Loved One Is Killed in a Hit-and-Run
Losing a loved one in a hit-and-run accident is a devastating experience, compounded by the suddenness and uncertainty of the situation. In the immediate aftermath, it’s crucial to take certain steps to ensure safety, facilitate a swift response from authorities, and begin the process of seeking justice for your loved one. This article outlines the necessary actions to take, from the moment you discover the accident to navigating the legal process with the help of experienced professionals.
Immediate Steps to Take After You’ve Lost a Loved One in a Hit-and-Run Incident
When you encounter the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident involving a loved one, the initial moments are crucial. Your actions can help ensure safety, facilitate the response from authorities, and gather valuable evidence that could aid in the investigation.
Here are the steps you should take if you are present at the scene:
Ensure Safety and Contact Authorities
The priority is to ensure your own safety and the safety of others at the scene. Assess the situation quickly to determine if there are any immediate dangers, such as oncoming traffic or hazardous conditions. Moving to a safe location while still being able to observe and assist is essential.
Call 911 immediately to report the incident and request emergency services. When speaking with the dispatcher, provide as much detailed information as possible:
- Location: Clearly state the exact location of the accident. If you are unsure, describe nearby landmarks or cross streets to help emergency responders find the scene quickly.
- Condition of the Victim: Describe the victim’s condition, including any visible injuries or if they are unconscious. This helps dispatchers prioritize the appropriate medical response.
- Details About the Vehicle or Driver: If you saw the incident or have any information about the vehicle or driver involved, share this with the dispatcher. Note the make, model, color, and license plate number of the vehicle if possible. Any distinctive features or behaviors of the driver should also be reported.
Providing detailed information to emergency services ensures that the right help arrives swiftly and can significantly impact the investigation and the care the victim receives.
While waiting for authorities to arrive, gathering evidence can be vital for the investigation. Here are some steps to follow if you are able:
- Document the scene by taking photographs. Capture images of the surroundings, any visible damage, skid marks, debris, and the overall layout of the accident site. These photos can serve as crucial evidence later on.
- Identify and speak to any witnesses who may have seen the accident. Gather their contact information and ask them to provide statements about what they observed. Witness accounts can be invaluable in reconstructing the event and identifying the responsible party.
- Check the vicinity for any surveillance cameras that might have captured the incident. Nearby businesses, homes, or traffic cameras could have footage that is critical to the investigation. Make a note of these locations and inform the authorities about them.
- By ensuring safety, promptly contacting authorities, and gathering evidence, you can help facilitate a thorough investigation and begin the process of seeking justice for your loved one.
Here are the steps you should take if you are not present at the scene:
Being notified by authorities that your loved one has been struck by a hit-and-run driver is an overwhelming and traumatic experience. It’s essential to remain as composed as possible to take the necessary steps to address the situation effectively. Here are the actions to take if you are not at the scene:
Gather Information from Authorities
- Listen Carefully: When you receive the call from law enforcement or medical personnel, listen carefully to the information they provide. They will likely give you details about the incident, the condition of your loved one, and the location where they were taken for medical treatment.
- Ask Questions: If you need more information, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Important details to inquire about include:
- The hospital where your loved one has been taken.
- The contact information for the primary point of contact (e.g., investigating officer or hospital representative).
- Any immediate steps you need to take or decisions you need to make.
Notify Immediate Family Members
Inform close family members about the incident. It’s important to have support during this difficult time and to ensure that everyone who needs to know is informed. If possible, designate someone to help you with making these calls.
If your loved one has been taken to a hospital, plan to get there as soon as possible. If you are too distressed to drive, ask a friend or family member to take you.
Take identification and any relevant medical information about your loved one, such as insurance details and a list of medications they are taking. This will assist the medical staff in providing the best care possible.
Stay in regular contact with the law enforcement officers handling the case. Provide them with any additional information they may need and ask for updates on the investigation. Cooperation with authorities is crucial in identifying and apprehending the hit-and-run driver.
If you have any information that might help the investigation, share it with the authorities. This includes any recent conversations or activities involving your loved one that could provide context or clues.
Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer
As soon as you are able, consult with a personal injury lawyer to understand your rights and the legal steps you can take. A lawyer experienced in hit-and-run cases can guide you through the process of seeking justice and compensation.
At Anthony-Smith Law, we understand the pain and confusion that follows such a tragic incident. Our experienced team is here to provide compassionate and effective legal support to help you navigate this challenging time. We will work tirelessly to hold the responsible party accountable and secure the compensation your family deserves. Contact us for a free consultation at 321-900-HELP (321-900-4357) or fill out the form on our website.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your loved one receives the necessary care and that you take the appropriate actions to support the investigation and seek justice.
