Note: Our firm’s mission is to help people injured in accidents. Because we do this work, we see the consequences of these accidents on the victims and the families. Through these articles, we aim to foster a safer community and provide support to those affected by such tragedies.
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Durham, NC (October 25, 2025) - According to local news reports, 55-year-old Fayetteville resident Ernest Howard was tragically killed early Saturday morning after being struck by two vehicles along South Miami Boulevard in Durham.
Police stated the accident occurred around 4:20 a.m. in the 3800 block of South Miami Boulevard, near the intersection of Patriot Drive, close to the IBM campus. Investigators reported that a 2016 Honda Accord traveling northbound first struck Howard, who was walking in the roadway at the time. Authorities confirmed that Howard was not in a crosswalk or near an intersection when the initial collision happened.
Moments later, before emergency responders arrived, a second vehicle traveling northbound also struck Howard and fled the scene. The driver of the Honda Accord remained at the site and immediately called 911 for help. Despite their efforts, Howard was pronounced dead at the scene by responding emergency personnel.
Police stated that impairment was not suspected as a contributing factor in the crash. Investigators are still working to identify the second vehicle involved and its driver. Officers encourage anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who has information about the vehicle that left the scene to contact Investigator A. Roberts at 984-259-4550 or reach out to CrimeStoppers at 919-683-1200 or online. CrimeStoppers offers cash rewards for information leading to arrests in felony cases, and callers may remain anonymous.
This incident remains under active investigation as authorities continue to piece together the sequence of events that led to the fatal pedestrian accident.
Why You Should Consider a Personal Injury Attorney in Durham, NC
When someone suffers an injury from an accident that wasn’t their fault, figuring out what to do next can feel overwhelming. Medical bills start piling up, insurance adjusters begin calling, and on top of it all, the physical and emotional recovery is just beginning. That’s when working with a personal injury attorney in Durham, NC can make a real difference.
A personal injury attorney provides legal support for those hurt in car accidents, pedestrian collisions, slips and falls, and other serious incidents. These legal professionals are familiar with North Carolina’s personal injury laws and can guide clients through every step of the claims process. From negotiating with insurance companies to filing lawsuits if necessary, they aim to get fair compensation for their clients’ injuries, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Working with a local attorney also means working with someone who understands the area, including its roads, courts, and community. A Durham personal injury lawyer can quickly access local resources, track down evidence, and meet with clients face-to-face. This kind of personal connection can ease the stress many people feel when dealing with the legal side of a serious accident.
How a Durham Personal Injury Attorney Supports Your Case
Hiring a Durham personal injury attorney gives injured individuals an advocate who will take on the legal challenges so they can focus on healing. They handle all the paperwork, investigate what happened, gather medical records, and make sure everything is filed correctly and on time.
They also deal directly with insurance companies, which often try to settle claims quickly and for less than what victims deserve. A good personal injury attorney in Durham, NC knows how to push back on lowball offers and fight for fair compensation. This includes not just the cost of medical treatment but also lost wages and the long-term effects of an injury.
Whether your case ends in a settlement or needs to go to court, a personal injury lawyer near you can be a strong guide throughout the process. Their goal is to help you recover financially while holding the responsible parties accountable for their actions.
What to Know About Durham Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
Pedestrian accidents are some of the most devastating incidents on North Carolina roads. When someone is struck by a car while walking, the injuries can be life-changing or even fatal. For families dealing with the aftermath, connecting with a Durham pedestrian accident lawyer can be a critical step in getting answers and pursuing justice.
These attorneys handle cases where a pedestrian is hit by a vehicle due to distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield, or poor road conditions. They know how to gather facts quickly, including witness statements, video footage, and police reports. A pedestrian accident attorney in Durham, NC will also help determine whether a crosswalk was involved and if traffic laws were violated.
In many pedestrian accident cases, especially those involving hit-and-run drivers, the process of finding the responsible party can be complex. A local attorney has the tools and experience to work alongside law enforcement, track insurance details, and explore every available option for compensation.
Why Hiring a Durham Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Matters
Getting legal help after a pedestrian accident is about more than just filing paperwork. A Durham pedestrian accident lawyer becomes a key part of the recovery process, helping clients focus on healing while they manage the legal and financial details.
This includes identifying all liable parties, filing insurance claims, and negotiating for full compensation. If the at-fault driver fled the scene or was uninsured, an attorney can explore alternative paths such as using the victim’s own uninsured motorist coverage.
By working with a pedestrian accident lawyer in Durham, NC, victims and their families gain peace of mind knowing someone is actively working to protect their rights. From gathering evidence to representing clients in court, these legal professionals play an important role in holding careless drivers accountable and supporting those impacted by serious accidents.
Legal Guidance Following a Durham Pedestrian Accident
A serious pedestrian accident like the one that claimed the life of Ernest Howard can leave families and loved ones struggling with shock and uncertainty. In situations like these, understanding what steps to take after a fatal accident can make a tremendous difference. A pedestrian accident lawyer in Durham, NC can help victims’ families by providing clarity about their legal rights and options.
Pedestrian accidents are often complex because they involve multiple parties, insurance policies, and potential criminal investigations, especially when a driver leaves the scene. A Durham personal injury lawyer can investigate the details of the case, collect evidence such as vehicle footage or witness statements, and work with experts to determine fault. This process helps ensure that the family’s voice is heard and that they are treated fairly under the law.
Common Challenges Families Face After a Fatal Pedestrian Accident
After a fatal pedestrian accident, families often face overwhelming emotional and financial challenges. The unexpected loss can lead to funeral expenses, loss of income, and uncertainty about how to pursue justice. Legal support from a personal injury attorney in Durham, NC can help ease this burden. They can communicate with insurance companies on behalf of the family, handle all legal documentation, and ensure that deadlines and filing requirements are met.
In many pedestrian accidents, evidence fades quickly. Surveillance footage can be deleted, and witnesses may become harder to locate as time passes. Having a Durham pedestrian accident lawyer ensures that an experienced professional is gathering and protecting critical evidence early in the process.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer in Durham Can Support Your Family
A personal injury lawyer near you can assist by investigating the scene, consulting accident reconstruction experts, and obtaining reports from local law enforcement. Their focus is to ensure accountability for negligent or reckless drivers while helping families secure compensation for damages such as funeral costs, medical expenses, and emotional suffering.
For families dealing with a hit-and-run, an attorney can work to identify the missing driver through available evidence, insurance tracing, and collaboration with investigators. While police continue their search, the attorney can pursue compensation through uninsured motorist coverage if applicable.
Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers in Durham Pedestrian Accidents
When a fatal pedestrian accident happens in North Carolina, families often need guidance from professionals who understand both the legal process and the emotional weight of such a loss. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers, based in Charlotte, NC, have extensive experience helping families across the state, including in Durham, after serious accidents.
Their team focuses on offering straightforward, caring legal advice that helps families make sense of what comes next. They understand that behind every case is a grieving family looking for answers and accountability. The firm’s lawyers, Corey Rosensteel and Matthew Fleishman, have built their reputation through consistent client communication and compassionate handling of complex cases.
Benefits of Hiring a North Carolina Injury Law Firm for a Durham Pedestrian Accident
Choosing a personal injury law firm in North Carolina like Rosensteel Fleishman means working with a team that is familiar with local laws, courts, and investigative procedures. They know how to handle cases involving multiple vehicles, uninsured motorists, and wrongful death claims.
Some key benefits of hiring a Durham personal injury attorney include:
- Comprehensive investigation of the crash scene and police reports
- Communication with insurance adjusters and medical providers
- Guidance through wrongful death claims and settlement discussions
- Coordination with local investigators to identify hit-and-run drivers
- Free initial consultation to help families understand their options
What a Durham Accident Lawyer Does to Help Families Recover
A Durham car accident attorney’s role extends far beyond filing claims. They stand beside families, helping them rebuild by addressing immediate needs like insurance coverage and long-term matters such as financial compensation. Their work ensures that families don’t have to face insurance companies or legal complexities alone.
A personal injury attorney in Durham, NC can also calculate damages fairly, including loss of companionship, emotional distress, and the impact of losing a loved one’s financial and emotional support. This careful approach ensures that families receive fair compensation and the justice they deserve.
How Rosensteel Fleishman Supports Families After the Durham Pedestrian Accident
The tragic death of Ernest Howard serves as a reminder of how quickly an accident can change lives. Families affected by similar pedestrian accidents in Durham often find themselves unsure of how to move forward. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers work closely with families during these difficult moments to help them seek accountability and justice.
Their team provides hands-on legal help by managing all interactions with insurance companies, collecting detailed evidence, and coordinating with local law enforcement if criminal charges are pending. For families grieving the loss of a loved one, this support can relieve significant emotional and administrative pressure.
The law firm’s experience with North Carolina pedestrian accidents means they understand the challenges unique to these cases—especially those involving multiple vehicles or hit-and-run drivers. Rosensteel Fleishman focuses on ensuring that every case receives the attention it deserves, helping clients throughout the state rebuild their lives through fair settlements and strong advocacy.
Choosing Rosensteel Fleishman for Your Accident & Injury Case in North Carolina
For years, Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers have been a trusted choice for people across North Carolina seeking help after serious car and pedestrian accidents. Their focus on communication and compassion has helped them build meaningful relationships with clients while achieving positive outcomes.
Attorney Corey Rosensteel once explained, “Our goal is to make the legal process as straightforward as possible for our clients. We handle the details so they can focus on healing and their families.” That mindset reflects the firm’s dedication to both professional excellence and genuine care.
Clients appreciate working with a local Charlotte law firm that offers personal attention while serving accident victims throughout North Carolina. With a strong understanding of state traffic laws and insurance regulations, Rosensteel Fleishman provides dependable representation that keeps families informed and supported every step of the way.
Get Legal Help Today from a Trusted North Carolina Law Firm
If you or a loved one has been affected by a pedestrian or car accident in Durham or anywhere in North Carolina, now is the time to speak with a caring attorney. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers offer free consultations to help victims and families learn their legal rights and next steps.
By calling 1-704-714-1450, you can connect directly with an experienced personal injury attorney near you who will take the time to listen and explain your options. Whether your case involves a hit-and-run, wrongful death, or serious injury, the firm is ready to help you pursue justice and rebuild your life with confidence and care.
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