A fatal car accident at a Lehigh County shopping center is under investigation after an 84-year-old driver died following a collision earlier this month.
According to Pennsylvania State Police, the crash occurred around 11:50 a.m. on February 16 at the West Valley Marketplace shopping center on Mill Creek Road in Lower Macungie Township.
Authorities identified the victim as Sik T. Chung of the Wescosville area. The Lehigh County Coroner’s Office determined Chung died from an intracerebral hemorrhage that developed after the crash, and the manner of death was ruled accidental.
Police say Chung was driving a 2004 Toyota Corolla when he attempted to exit the shopping center parking lot and turn left onto Mill Creek Road. His vehicle reportedly pulled into the path of a 2018 Audi Q5 driven by a 49-year-old woman from Allentown.
The Audi driver attempted to swerve to avoid the crash, but the vehicles collided.
Neither the Audi driver nor a 12-year-old passenger in the vehicle suffered injuries.
Pennsylvania State Police in Fogelsville and the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office continue to investigate the crash.
Fatal Accidents in Parking Lots Are More Common Than Many Drivers Realize
Although parking lots are typically low-speed environments, serious injuries and fatalities can still occur.
Common causes of Pennsylvania parking lot crashes include:
- Drivers failing to yield when exiting parking lots
- Limited visibility due to parked vehicles
- Distracted driving
- Drivers accelerating unexpectedly
- Confusion about right-of-way rules
Even low-speed impacts can lead to traumatic brain injuries, internal bleeding, or delayed medical complications, particularly for elderly drivers.
Determining Fault After a Fatal Car Accident in Pennsylvania
Determining liability in a fatal crash requires a careful investigation of the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Evidence often includes:
- Police crash reports
- Witness statements
- Surveillance footage from nearby businesses
- Accident reconstruction
- Medical records and coroner findings
Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence system, meaning liability can be divided among multiple parties depending on their percentage of fault.
When a Crash Leads to a Wrongful Death Case
If negligence contributed to a fatal accident, Pennsylvania law allows families to pursue a wrongful death claim.
These claims may seek compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical costs 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 experienced legal guidance to properly investigate the crash and preserve evidence.
Speak With a Pennsylvania Car Accident Lawyer
Serious accidents can leave families searching for answers. An experienced attorney can investigate the crash and determine whether compensation may be available.
Clause Law Group represents individuals and families throughout Pennsylvania who have been harmed in serious motor vehicle crashes.
📞 Call today: 570-676-5212
