Pedestrian Lennard Dawson Jr. fatally hit in Aurora, drivers flee

HIT-AND-RUN INVESTIGATION NEEDED

Leaving the scene of a collision is a criminal act, yet data shows that nearly 11 percent of all crashes nationwide involve a driver who flees. In many hit-and-run cases, the person responsible attempts to escape consequences by abandoning the scene. Drivers often run due to impairment, lacking a valid license, or fear of arrest.

A report from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) noted that an estimated 7,148 pedestrians were killed on U.S. roadways in 2024, including 123 fatalities in Colorado. Candice Bond, an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney, emphasized that immediate and independent investigative work is critical in these types of cases.

“Having the right resources is vital for examining the factors involved in a hit-and-run crash and establishing negligence,” said Bond, Managing Partner of Bond Legal. “Elements such as lighting, roadway design, and visibility must all be carefully reviewed. These steps help ensure that victims affected by a hit-and-run driver receive the justice and compensation they deserve.”

WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM

“It is almost always a driver’s obligation to yield to a pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. The family of Lennard Dawson Jr. may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim.

“Families who lose a loved one due to negligence can seek damages for financial losses, companionship, emotional hardship, funeral expenses, and other related impacts,” Formica explained. An attorney can serve as a strong advocate, guiding the family with compassion while safeguarding their legal rights.

“Insurance companies frequently try to push families into early settlements that may not reflect the true value of the case,” Formica added. “A dedicated attorney will work to ensure the family is treated fairly and receives appropriate compensation.”

(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)