Chase Lantz Hurt in Billings Crosswalk Crash Near Rehberg Lane

FATAL PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION

Authorities are investigating the crash.

Vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, continue to face serious risks on U.S. roads, with pedestrian fatalities trending upward since 2010, according to the National Safety Council. In 2023, pedestrian deaths decreased for the first time since 2019, but the percentage of pedestrian deaths compared with overall traffic fatalities increased for four consecutive years, reaching 18.0% in 2024.

“Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a pedestrian accident case and prove negligence,” said Candice Bond, an experienced pedestrian accident attorney and a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. “Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that are considered and must be thoroughly examined. These procedures are necessary for helping those who have lost a loved one receive the justice that they deserve.”

Bond, who is also a national analyst for Accident Injury News, added, “In most instances, pedestrians possess the right of way when crossing an intersection or a street regardless of if they are in a marked crosswalk.”

WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM

The family of Chase Lantz may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim.

“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, Of Counsel at Bond Legal and a national analyst for Accident Injury News. “Family members of wrongful death victims may seek damages for loss of income and companionship, pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident.”

Serving as an advocate, an attorney can compassionately guide families through this difficult period while helping protect their rights.

“Insurance companies often try to pressure victims to settle for a quick payout for far less than the case is worth,” Bond noted. “However, an attorney will vigorously advocate for their client to ensure that they are treated with respect and compensated fairly.”

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