Hit and Run Death

Police have arrested a man following the death of a young father in a hit-and-run incident in Wakefield city centre.

The incident happened outside the Elephant and Castle pub in Westgate in the early hours of Sunday. Dean Dawson, 24, from York, died in hospital after he was struck by a car, understood to be a dark-coloured Renault, which failed to stop.

Mr Dawson was taken to Pinderfields Hospital with serious injuries but was pronounced dead a few hours later.

The car was later recovered by police and a 35-year-old man arrested on suspicion of motoring offences in connection with the incident.

Police are still appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

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David Urpeth from law firm Irwin Mitchell said: "This was a terrible and tragic road traffic accident. Sadly, when pedestrians are involved in road accidents, the results are often serious if not fatal.

"Many people believe that it is not possible to pursue a claim for compensation following a hit and run road traffic accident where the driver is not located. This is not the case.

"The MIB (Motor Insurers Bureau) operates a scheme whereby compensation may be available.

"Therefore, my advice is that if you suffer any injury following a road crash, you should seek legal advice as soon as possible.

"I regularly act for victim of road accidents in pursuing claims for compensation either against insurers or the MIB."