Family Mourns Father Fatally Struck by Car on I-75
Father Fatally Struck by Car: A Metro Detroit family is grieving the tragic loss of Jeffrey McLeod, a 53-year-old husband, father, and grandfather from Lincoln Park, who was fatally struck by a car while performing his construction duties on I-75. The incident occurred on Wednesday, November 5, as McLeod was setting up a flare pattern to ensure the safety of fellow workers and drivers in the construction zone.
McLeod’s son, Dylan, spoke warmly about his father, describing him as one of the “nicest and most generous men” he’d ever known. Dylan’s words echo the pain and devastation the family feels, mourning the loss of a man who not only worked hard to provide for his family but was also committed to being present and supportive, despite his demanding schedule. Jeffrey McLeod’s tragic death has highlighted the critical need for awareness and caution in construction zones to protect the lives of workers who strive to make roads safer for everyone.
According to police reports, McLeod was following all safety protocols, placing flares and setting a pattern to divert traffic away from the construction area when a 71-year-old driver in a Kia sedan entered the right lane, ignoring posted warnings and safety markers. Despite visible street signs, trucks, and arrow boards alerting drivers to the construction zone, the driver fatally struck McLeod, bringing an abrupt end to his life and leaving his family devastated. “He was doing his job correctly,” Dylan shared, emphasizing his father’s dedication to safety. “He was being safe, and this horrible, tragic incident still happened.”
The McLeod family, stricken by grief, is also calling on drivers to exercise caution in construction zones, urging everyone to recognize the responsibility they hold to keep construction workers safe. “If you see construction, know that they are out there working and they are trying to get home safely,” Dylan said. “You might be trying to drive home safe, and they are trying to get home safe.”
Michigan has seen a significant number of construction zone fatalities, with 24 reported in 2023 alone, according to the Office of Highway Safety Planning. This alarming statistic underscores the dangers construction workers face every day, often due to driver negligence or failure to follow safety warnings in work zones.
Understanding the Compensation at Stake
In tragic cases like the loss of Jeffrey McLeod, families may be entitled to several forms of compensation to help them manage the financial and emotional impact of their loss. Potential compensation could include medical expenses incurred before death, funeral and burial costs, loss of income and benefits, and loss of companionship. Additionally, pain and suffering experienced by family members is another factor that courts consider when determining compensation. This financial assistance, while it cannot replace a loved one, provides families with support during a challenging time, helping them rebuild their lives and honoring the memory of those lost in preventable accidents.
How Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC Can Help
At Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC, we understand the depth of grief and confusion that follows such a tragic accident. Our dedicated attorneys specialize in representing families who have lost loved ones due to negligence in construction zones. We offer compassionate and experienced guidance, helping families like the McLeods navigate the complex legal process involved in wrongful death claims.
Our firm diligently investigates every detail of the accident, gathering evidence and consulting with accident reconstruction experts as needed to build a strong case. We prioritize obtaining fair compensation to address the financial and emotional damages families suffer in these incidents. Our goal is to ensure that those responsible are held accountable, contributing to a safer environment for all workers.
Call us for a free and confidential case evaluation. We are available by phone, text, and online chat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Note: Our law office relies on external sources for the content of this post. Although we aim for accuracy, we have not independently verified all facts related to this incident. Please notify Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC for corrections if you identify any inaccuracies. Posts will be removed upon request.
Disclaimer: The content of this post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation for business. The information contained herein is not intended to offer legal or medical advice. If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, it is recommended to seek immediate medical assistance. The photo featured in this post was not taken at the actual scene of the accident.
Source: Click On Detroit
