Woman Dies After Being Struck by Three Vehicles in Tragic Accident
BEDFORD TOWNSHIP, Mich. – A 43-year-old woman tragically lost her life after being struck by three separate vehicles while walking along Smith Road late Saturday night. The incident, which occurred just before midnight on November 16, 2024, has left the local community in shock and raised serious questions about road safety.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office identified the victim as Erika R. Todd, a resident of Erie Township. According to officials, Todd was walking near the shoulder of Smith Road, west of Telegraph Road, when a driver in an unidentified vehicle struck her and fled the scene. Investigators are currently seeking information on the make and model of the vehicle involved in the initial hit-and-run.
A Tragic Sequence of Events
After being left in the roadway by the first vehicle, Todd was subsequently struck by two more cars. A 65-year-old woman from Toledo, Ohio, driving a 2007 Honda Accord, hit Todd in the westbound lanes of Smith Road. The driver stopped immediately and pulled over to the westbound shoulder.
Shortly after, Todd was struck a third time by a 19-year-old woman from Erie Township driving a 2007 Nissan Sentra. The Nissan also had a 24-year-old male passenger. The driver pulled over to the eastbound shoulder following the collision.
None of the individuals involved in the subsequent accidents sustained injuries, and they were released after providing statements to law enforcement. First responders pronounced Todd deceased at the scene.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident, with particular focus on identifying and locating the first vehicle. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the sheriff’s office at 734-240-7548 or to submit anonymous tips via Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAKUP or online at 1800speakup.org.
Compensation for Victims in Hit-and-Run Accidents
In cases like this, the victim’s family may face significant financial and emotional burdens, from funeral expenses to loss of companionship and emotional distress. Michigan law allows surviving family members to pursue compensation through wrongful death claims, including coverage for medical expenses incurred before death, loss of income, and pain and suffering endured by the victim before passing. Additionally, the family may seek punitive damages against the at-fault driver, especially in cases involving hit-and-run negligence.
For victims of hit-and-run accidents, securing compensation can be challenging, particularly when the driver responsible for the initial crash remains unidentified. This is where we at Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC, can make a difference. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping families navigate the complex legal landscape, ensuring that justice is served. We specialize in investigating hit-and-run cases, working tirelessly to identify liable parties, and pursuing all avenues of compensation, including claims through uninsured motorist coverage.
How We Can Help
At Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC, we understand the devastation caused by such tragedies. Our compassionate team is committed to standing by the victim’s family during this difficult time, providing expert legal guidance and unwavering support. If you or a loved one has been affected by a hit-and-run accident, we encourage you to reach out to us. Together, we can fight for the justice and compensation your family deserves.
This heartbreaking incident is a stark reminder of the importance of accountability and safe driving practices. As the investigation unfolds, we hope for answers that bring closure to Erika Todd’s grieving family.
Call us for a free and confidential case evaluation. We are available by phone, text, and online chat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Note: Our law office relies on external sources for the content of this post. Although we aim for accuracy, we have not independently verified all facts related to this incident. Please notify Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC for corrections if you identify any inaccuracies. Posts will be removed upon request.
Disclaimer: The content of this post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation for business. The information contained herein is not intended to offer legal or medical advice. If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, it is recommended to seek immediate medical assistance. The photo featured in this post was not taken at the actual scene of the accident.
Source: Click On Detroit
