Hit-and-Run Fatality on Atlantic City Expressway: Seeking Justice in a Wrongful Death Claim

The sudden loss of a loved one is a devastating experience, and the pain is only compounded when that loss occurs due to a hit-and-run accident. In New Jersey, a recent tragedy on the Atlantic City Expressway has brought the issue of hit-and-run fatalities into sharp focus. On January 12, 2025, a 39-year-old woman, Natacha Previl, was killed after being struck by a vehicle that fled the scene. This incident underscores the critical need for legal recourse and justice for victims and their families. In 2023, there were 556 traffic-related fatalities in New Jersey, with 48 of those involving hit-and-run incidents, highlighting the severity of this problem.

Understanding Hit-and-Run Laws in New Jersey

A hit-and-run occurs when a driver involved in an accident leaves the scene without providing their information or rendering aid. New Jersey law mandates that any driver involved in an accident must stop immediately and remain at the scene. This applies whether the accident involves another vehicle, a person, or property. Failing to do so can result in serious legal consequences.

What Constitutes a Hit-and-Run?

A hit-and-run is defined as a traffic collision where a driver causes an accident and then leaves the scene without stopping to provide assistance or exchange information. This is a criminal act, and the penalties can be severe, especially when the accident results in serious injury or death.

Legal Obligations of Drivers

In New Jersey, drivers involved in an accident are legally obligated to:

Stop immediately: Drivers must stop their vehicle as close to the scene as possible without obstructing traffic.
Provide information: Drivers must exchange names, addresses, driver’s license information, and vehicle registration details with the other parties involved.
Render aid: If anyone is injured, drivers must provide reasonable assistance, including calling for medical help.
Report the accident: If the accident involves injury, death, or significant property damage, drivers must notify the police.

The Devastating Impact of Hit-and-Run Accidents

Hit-and-run accidents can have catastrophic consequences, particularly when they involve pedestrians or cyclists. In the case of Natacha Previl, she had exited her vehicle on the shoulder of the Atlantic City Expressway when she was struck by an unknown vehicle. The driver’s decision to flee the scene not only demonstrated a blatant disregard for human life but also hindered the immediate provision of medical assistance, which could have been critical.

Pedestrian and Cyclist Vulnerability

Pedestrians and cyclists are particularly vulnerable in hit-and-run accidents due to their lack of protection. The impact of a vehicle can cause severe injuries, and the delay in medical care resulting from a driver fleeing the scene can be fatal.

Seeking Justice Through a Wrongful Death Claim

When a hit-and-run accident results in a fatality, the victim’s family has the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. This type of legal action seeks to hold the negligent party accountable and obtain compensation for the losses suffered by the family.

What is a Wrongful Death Claim?

A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit brought against a party whose negligence or misconduct caused a person’s death. In the context of a hit-and-run fatality, the claim seeks to establish that the driver’s actions directly led to the victim’s death.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, the executor of the deceased person’s will or the personal representative of the estate is typically the one who files the wrongful death claim. The compensation recovered is then distributed to the deceased’s survivors, which may include:

Spouse
Children and/or grandchildren
Parents
Siblings, nephews, and nieces

Types of Damages Recoverable

A wrongful death claim can seek compensation for various types of damages, including:

Funeral and burial expenses: The costs associated with the deceased’s funeral and burial.
Medical expenses: Any medical bills incurred before the victim’s death.
Loss of income: The financial support the deceased would have provided to their family.
Loss of companionship and support: The emotional and relational losses suffered by the family.
Pain and suffering: Compensation for the emotional distress experienced by the family due to the loss.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Navigating the complexities of a wrongful death claim, especially in a hit-and-run case, can be overwhelming. An experienced personal injury attorney can provide invaluable assistance by:

Investigating the accident: Gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reconstructing the accident scene.
Identifying the responsible party: Working with law enforcement to locate the hit-and-run driver.
Building a strong case: Establishing negligence and proving the link between the driver’s actions and the victim’s death.
Negotiating with insurance companies: Seeking a fair settlement for the family’s losses.
Representing the family in court: If a settlement cannot be reached, litigating the case to secure a favorable outcome.

The Role of Law Enforcement

Law enforcement plays a crucial role in hit-and-run cases. The New Jersey State Police are actively investigating the hit-and-run that resulted in Natacha Previl’s death, and they urge anyone with information to come forward. Their efforts to identify and apprehend the driver are essential for bringing justice to the victim and their family.

What to Do if You Witness a Hit-and-Run

If you witness a hit-and-run accident, it is important to:

Prioritize safety: Ensure your own safety and move to a safe location.
Call 911: Report the accident to the police immediately.
Provide details: Share as much information as possible, including the vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate number (if possible), as well as the direction the vehicle was traveling.
Offer witness information: Provide your contact information to the police so they can follow up with you.

Time Limits for Filing a Claim

In New Jersey, there is a statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim. Generally, the claim must be filed within two years of the date of death. It is crucial to act promptly and consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure that the claim is filed within the required timeframe.

Conclusion

The hit-and-run fatality on the Atlantic City Expressway is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of reckless driving and the importance of holding negligent drivers accountable. If you have lost a loved one in a hit-and-run accident, you have the right to seek justice and compensation. Contact our firm today for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.