While it would be nice to think that everyone passes away peacefully, this isn’t always the case. The demise of a loved one can be horrendous for all concerned, particularly when it’s related to a wrongful death. Readers in San Antonio may have heard about a student who has reportedly caused a serious accident in Texas and now faces serious charges.
The student has been accused of driving drunk and has been charged with a range of offenses including second-degree manslaughter after a wreck. The local police department also states that he failed to stop and render aid. They also claim that he has been charged with second degree intoxication manslaughter for his BAC. A witness apparently saw the incident and stated that the student’s vehicle, traveling between 80 and 100 mph, hit a Toyota Prius from the rear. This sent the Prius into oncoming traffic. The student’s truck also went into traffic, eventually striking a Toyota Camry.
The driver of the Prius, a 60-year-old woman, was declared dead at the scene, and her teenage son was declared dead at the hospital. The driver and passengers of the Camry, along with a second passenger in the Prius, sustained serious injuries that included broken bones. The student allegedly fled the scene wearing only a towel. He was eventually arrested nearby, but he refused to take a field sobriety test. His blood alcohol level was determined to be .27 after blood tests were taken at the hospital during treatment.
The death of a loved family member is always hard, and it can lead to hardship for the rest of the family. While the last thing on your mind in such a tragic situation is your finances, it may be possible to recoup some of the costs from the person who caused the accident. In such a case, the right legal advice can make a world of difference.
Source: Tuscaloosa News, “UA student charged in fatal DUI car wreck” Ed Enoch, Dec. 31, 2013