Construction Worker Killed in Hit-and-Run Incident in Hazle Township
Kevin Dendulk, a construction worker from Royerford, was killed recently after being struck by a hit-and-run driver along Interstate 81 in Luzerne County. This incident occurred on August 1st, 2020, around 1:15 am.
The Pennsylvania State Police are looking for the driver and vehicle.
According to law enforcement, the vehicle involved in the incident is a silver Hyundai with front end damage and a missing passenger-side mirror. The unknown driver was traveling northbound in the right lane, which was closed due to construction. The incident occurred around mile marker 143.2. The driver struck Dendulk and fled the scene without stopping. They ask that anyone with information about the incident contact Pennsylvania State Police at Hazleton at (570) 459-3890.
Police report that Dendulk died at the scene.
Hit-and-Run Accidents Dangerous Risk on Highways
Hit-and-run accidents occur more frequently on highways. Drivers are traveling at a faster rate and do not expect to encounter hazards as they would on busy city streets. Some do not even recognize the impact until they are hundreds of feet from where the encounter took place. Construction workers like Dendulk face an especially high risk.
Fleeing a hit-and-run accident is a crime. Charges can be filed in addition to the ones related directly to the accident. If you or a loved one is the victim in a hit-and-run accident, it is important to seek legal guidance.
The best thing to do if you are involved in a hit-and-run accident or if you witness this type of event is to stay calm and get as much information as you can about the vehicle involved. This includes:
- Model
- Make
- License plate number
- Color
- Description of the driver, if possible
It also helps to note and record aspects of the scene of the incident, including:
- Time of day or night
- Location
- Witnesses in the area
- Road conditions
If possible, take pictures of the scene.
You should never attempt to chase someone responsible for a hit-and-run incident. Doing so is dangerous and can cause you to drive recklessly and create more damage.
Instead, contact the police as soon as possible and file an accident report that includes the information you’ve gathered after the event. This is the safest option and will help you or the victim of the hit-and-run the most.
Experienced Personal Injury Attorneys Help Victims of Hit-and-Run Accidents
If you or a loved one has been involved in a hit-and-run crash, we can help. Contact Heavens Law at 888.897.5377 to schedule a free consultation.