Incidents that cause injury can happen anywhere and at any time, including to pedestrians. Wheelchair users are at an even higher risk when they have to cross busy city streets. Such auto accidents can cause traumatic injuries, and in some cases, they could be fatal. One such accident recently claimed the life of a New Hampshire woman.

According to a report by the New Hampshire State Police, a woman in Lancaster was navigating her motorized wheelchair across Route 3 when a vehicle struck her. Authorities say the 76-year-old woman was hit while she was in a crosswalk. The victim was rushed to a medical facility, but she succumbed to her injuries.

The car that struck the wheelchair was operated by a 37-year-old man — also from Lancaster. Reportedly, he had two children as passengers in his vehicle. Neither the driver nor his passengers suffered any injuries in the crash. Police did not indicate whether charges were pending.

Regardless of whether criminal charges are filed against a driver who strikes a pedestrian in a crosswalk, the civil justice system offers injured victims — or the surviving family members of deceased victims — the opportunity to pursue financial relief. Personal injury or wrongful death lawsuits can be filed in a New Hampshire civil court. However, negligence will have to be established by appropriate evidence, and that could be challenging.

The process could be simplified by securing the services of an experienced personal injury attorney. A lawyer can also assist with documenting the claims, which could include medical expenses, lost income when applicable, and the costs related to end-of-life arrangements when auto accidents caused deaths. Victims or surviving family members can also cover noneconomic damages such as pain and suffering in their documented claims.