Jon Gearhart Died In Horseheads Hit-And-Run Collision Along Route 14
HORSEHEADS, NEW YORK (November 16, 2022) – A pedestrian identified as Jon Gearhart has tragically died in a Horseheads hit-and-run car accident on Route 14.
Chemung County officials are saying that the accident took place around 9:40 p.m. on Friday. Jon Gearhart was removing a deer carcass from the roadway when he was hit by a car.
The driver that hit him fled the scene of the collision. Jon Gearhart was taken to the Arnot Ogden Medical Center in order to receive treatment.
Despite life-saving measures, he died as a result of his injuries. Police are still searching for the driver that fled the scene.
Liability For Horseheads Car Accidents
Thousands of people are injured or killed in hit-and-run collisions every year. According to the AAA Foundation, “In 2016, there were 1,980 fatal hit-and-run crashes resulting in 2,049 fatalities. This is the highest annual number of hit-and-run fatalities or crashes recorded since NHTSA began compiling statistics on fatal motor vehicle crashes in 1975.” There are a number of factors that could contribute to a car accident.
- Speeding
- Inclement weather
- Driver distraction
- Poor road conditions
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid hitting pedestrians. If a driver fails to reduce their speed and hits a pedestrian, this could form the basis of a negligence claim. The family of any person that is killed in a car accident may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim. It is important that all evidence is preserved after any collision.
Investigating A Horsehead Car Accident
We at Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C. extend our deepest condolences to the family of Jon Gearhart. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to police. The driver responsible for this crash should do the right thing and turn themselves in.
Do you need more information about a Horsehead car accident? Our team of pedestrian safety advocates are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into any collision, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (516) 908-9792.
