Fall River, MA — Child Struck by Vehicle Transporting Gunshot Victim near Choate St

According to preliminary reports, a vehicle struck a child while traveling through the neighborhood. The driver of the vehicle reportedly fled the scene immediately after the impact; however, investigators later determined the driver was in the process of transporting a gunshot victim to a local hospital.

The child was found to be alert at the scene and, fortunately, did not appear to have sustained life-threatening injuries, though they were transported to a nearby hospital for a full evaluation.

The gunshot victim is also reported to have non-life-threatening injuries.

Police are currently working to determine the circumstances of the shooting and the subsequent hit-and-run.

We wish a full and speedy recovery for all those injured in this incident.

When a child is involved in a pedestrian accident, the legal and insurance path forward is unique. In Massachusetts, even if the circumstances of the driver are complex, such as an emergency involving a secondary victim, the law still prioritizes the protection and recovery of the injured minor.

Under the Massachusetts "no-fault" law, a child struck by a vehicle is typically covered by Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits. If the child’s household has an auto insurance policy, that policy usually provides the first $8,000 for medical bills.

If the household does not have a policy, the insurance for the vehicle that struck the child is responsible for these initial costs. This ensures that the child receives immediate pediatric evaluation and treatment at a hospital without the family worrying about upfront costs.

In cases where a driver leaves the scene, even for a perceived emergency, it is legally classified as a hit-and-run. If the driver is eventually identified, their insurance remains the primary source of recovery.

However, if a driver remains unidentified or is uninsured, families can often turn to their own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. This part of your own policy acts as a safety net, stepping in to provide compensation for the child's injuries just as the other driver's insurance would have.

One critical difference in cases involving children is the timeline for legal action. While adults generally have three years to file a personal injury claim in Massachusetts, the "Statute of Limitations" for a minor is often "tolled," or paused, until they reach the age of 18.

This gives families time to understand the full long-term impact of any injuries, such as developmental delays or psychological trauma, before finalizing a settlement. An attorney can help manage this timeline, ensuring that every medical milestone is documented to support the child’s future well-being.

A consultation with a Massachusetts personal injury lawyer can be helpful, as they can explain your rights and guide you through the claims process. They may also help determine liability and clarify what types of compensation may be available. Legal guidance can make the process clearer and more manageable.

Attorney Christopher Fiorentino of Fiorentino Legal, P.C. can provide dedicated support. You can contact Chris at (617) 990-2568 to discuss your case and learn more about your rights and options moving forward.