According to law enforcement authorities with the Prince George’s County Police Department, a hit-and-run crash claimed the life of a bicyclist in Lanham on Nov. 23. The accident reportedly occurred on Martin Luther King Jr. Highway near its intersection with Forbes Road around 1:55 a.m.
Authorities report that a 34-year-old Lanham man was riding his bicycle west on the road when he was struck from behind by a vehicle. Witnesses told police the vehicle was a black Nissan Altima between the years of 2010 and 2012. Following the accident, the Altima’s driver reportedly fled the accident scene.
The man was transported by responding emergency medical personnel to the hospital for treatment. He later died from his injuries at the facility. Police investigators have asked for the public’s help in finding the involved Nissan. Police stated that the Nissan sustained damage in the accident. They indicated the car should have a broken headlight, front-end damage and a missing part of the bumper.
Drivers have a duty to stop and remain at the scene following a motor vehicle accident. Families of those who are killed may be able to recover compensation for their losses incurred as a result of their loved one’s death. When the driver has acted in an egregious manner, families may be able to recover punitive damages against the driver in addition to compensatory ones. Families may wish to meet with a personal injury attorney concerning filing a wrongful death claim against the negligent party. An attorney may be able to help by filing the lawsuit and advocating for his or her clients.