She was hit while crossing the highway at the intersection with Northwest Broadway Street
COUPEVILLE, WA, (September 25, 2024) - A 31-year-old woman was fatally struck by a dump truck along Central Whidbey in Coupeville Wednesday afternoon, according to the Washington State Patrol.
Melody L. Golgart, 31, tragically lost her life after being hit by a vehicle along Highway 20 in Coupeville Wednesday afternoon, according to the Washington State Patrol.
The victim—Coupeville resident Melody L. Golgart—died from injuries as she was being flown to Providence Medical Center in Everett.
A preliminary investigation found that a Volvo dump truck with a trailer was traveling south on Highway 20 around 2:48 p.m. when it collided with Golgart, who was attempting to cross the road at the intersection with Northwest Broadway Street. The dump truck driver was not injured.
This is the third time that a pedestrian has been killed at the intersection since 2016, the report said.
Authorities are investigating.
CRASH INVESTIGATION NEEDED
The number of people struck and killed by drivers nationwide while walking increased by an astonishing 45% over the last decade (2010-2019).
“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,” said Bond, Managing Partner of Bond Legal.
“It is always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian.”
Bond, an experienced pedestrian accident attorney, noted that in cases such as this, it is imperative to have an independent probe conducted by a seasoned lawyer to help protect the rights of the victim's family.
WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM
Pending the results of the investigation, the family of Melody L. Golgart may be entitled to a wrongful death claim for the loss of love and companionship.
“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Stefano Formica, Of Counsel with Bond Legal.
“A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that the victim's legal rights and best interests are protected.”
Newsline's national legal analysts Candice Bond and Stefano Formica are experienced in fatal pedestrian accidents, and if you or a family member need help they are available for a free consultation to guide you.
(Candice Bond, Managing Partner, and Stefano Formica, Of Counsel, at Bond Legal, are the national legal analysts for Newsline. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).