An 84-year-old man was killed in a crash at a Lehigh County shopping center parking lot, according to Pennsylvania State Police. The collision occurred at the West Valley Marketplace in Lower Macungie Township on the morning of February 16.
Authorities identified the deceased as Sik T. Chung of Wescosville. According to the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office, Chung died from an intracerebral hemorrhage hours after the crash, and the death was ruled accidental.
Police reported that Chung was driving a 2004 Toyota Corolla and attempted to exit the parking lot and turn left onto Mill Creek Road when his vehicle entered the path of a 2018 Audi Q5 driven by a 49-year-old woman from Allentown. The Audi driver attempted to swerve but struck Chung’s vehicle.
Neither the Audi driver nor a 12-year-old passenger in the Audi was injured.
Pennsylvania State Police in Fogelsville and the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office are continuing to investigate the crash.
Parking Lot Accidents Can Be More Serious Than Many People Think
While many drivers assume parking lot crashes are minor, they can quickly become serious or even fatal, especially when elderly drivers are involved.
Parking lot crashes frequently occur because of:
- Drivers pulling into traffic without adequate visibility
- Confusion about right-of-way
- Distracted driving
- Limited traffic control signage
- Drivers accelerating unexpectedly
Even though speeds may be lower than highway crashes, side-impact collisions or impacts involving older drivers can lead to traumatic brain injuries, internal bleeding, or fatal complications, as appears to have occurred in this case.
Who May Be Liable in a Pennsylvania Crash?
Under Pennsylvania law, determining liability in a fatal crash requires examining all contributing factors.
Potentially responsible parties can include:
- Another driver, if they were speeding, distracted, or failed to avoid the collision
- A property owner, if unsafe traffic patterns or poor visibility contributed
- Vehicle manufacturers, if mechanical defects played a role
- Third parties, such as contractors responsible for roadway design or signage
Pennsylvania follows a comparative negligence system, meaning liability can be shared between multiple parties depending on their percentage of fault.
When a Fatal Crash Leads to a Wrongful Death Claim
If a person dies as a result of a motor vehicle crash, Pennsylvania law allows certain family members to pursue a wrongful death claim.
These claims may seek compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills prior to death
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship and guidance
- Pain and suffering experienced before death
Wrongful death claims are often complex and require a thorough investigation, including accident reconstruction, medical analysis, and review of police reports.
Steps Families Should Take After a Fatal Accident
When a fatal crash occurs, families are often overwhelmed and unsure what to do next. Important steps may include:
- Obtaining the police crash report
- Preserving vehicle and accident scene evidence
- Requesting surveillance footage from nearby businesses
- Consulting with an experienced Pennsylvania personal injury attorney
- Avoiding statements to insurance companies before receiving legal advice
Early legal guidance can help ensure that critical evidence is preserved and that families understand their rights.
How Clause Law Group Helps Pennsylvania Accident Victims
At Clause Law Group, we represent individuals and families throughout Pennsylvania who have been affected by serious and fatal motor vehicle accidents.
Our firm investigates crashes involving:
- Car accidents
- Fatal crashes
- Parking lot collisions
- Truck and commercial vehicle accidents
- Negligent driving
If you or your family has been affected by a serious crash, our office can help evaluate your legal options and determine whether compensation may be available.
📞 Call Clause Law Group today: 570-676-5212
Frequently Asked Questions About Fatal Car Accidents in Pennsylvania
What is the time limit to file a wrongful death claim in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania generally provides two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Can a parking lot accident result in a lawsuit?
Yes. If negligence contributed to the crash, a parking lot accident may still result in personal injury or wrongful death claims.
Who can bring a wrongful death claim in Pennsylvania?
Typically, the personal representative of the estate files the claim on behalf of the surviving family members.
