Alcohol Suspected in Fatal Tempe Pedestrian Accident | Legal News | News Ticker

People who are traveling on foot need to be able to trust that the motorists in the area at the time are following all of the traffic laws and that they have not made bad decisions before getting behind the wheel. When this trust is broken, people can suffer greatly. Tragically, this is what police suspect occurred with regards to a fatal Tempe pedestrian accident where it’s suspected that the driver involved in the crash was under the influence of alcohol when the collision occurred.

According to authorities, this fatal Tempe pedestrian accident took place on Monday just before 7 a.m. on Monday when 62-year-old John Larson of Cambridge, Minnesota was walking on Hardy Drive south of Baseline Road. At that point, 23-year-old Pedro Ruiz of Phoenix was driving a Jeep SUV in the area and slammed into the man walking. Mr. Larson was killed at the scene, and the driver attempted to flee the area but soon crashed into a block wall. He was injured as well and could face a charge of second-degree murder for his actions. Police believe that alcohol was a factor in the crash.

Arizona Pedestrian Accident Statistics

First and foremost, we’d like to offer our most sincere condolences to the family and friends of the man who was killed. Losing a life in such a violent manner and because someone was allegedly drinking before driving is truly a tragedy. In addition, this fatal Tempe pedestrian accident will now become part of the overall statistics regarding Arizona pedestrian accidents. Every year, more than 1,500 such crashes occur, leading to more than 1,300 injuries and to more than 10 fatalities every month.

Phoenix Wrongful Death Lawyers

Clearly, the driver in this suspected Tempe DUI accident will face serious criminal charges. He could also face an Arizona wrongful death lawsuit if the family of the man who was killed decides to initiate such a filing. If a case is filed and is successful, it could lead to an award of damages that compensates the family for their medical, funeral and burial costs as well as their lost income and their loss of companionship.

If you or someone you love has been harmed by a drunk driver, you need to seek the help of Phoenix DUI accident lawyers who have been holding those responsible for this conduct accountable for many years. Contact the Phillips Law Group today to schedule a free initial consultation.