Virginia Tucker Lyon Killed in Downtown Smithfield Crash

FATAL PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION

Vulnerable road users such as pedestrians are being killed at an alarming rate nationwide, with pedestrian fatalities trending upward since 2010, according to the National Safety Council. In 2023, pedestrian deaths declined for the first time since 2019, but the percentage of pedestrian deaths among 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 potential contributing factors that must be considered and thoroughly examined. These steps are necessary to help those who have lost a loved one receive the justice they deserve.”

Bond 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 Virginia Tucker Lyon 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.”

As an advocate, an attorney can compassionately guide families through this difficult period while protecting their legal 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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