The thought that many drivers in Pennsylvania and, indeed, throughout the United States, still choose to drive when drunk is both distressing and alarming. It only takes one mistake on the part of one person for disaster to strike and suddenly everyone on the road is at risk. Such incidents often result in serious injuries and widespread damage. Worse still, many of these accidents prove fatal for those involved.
Such was the case in an accident in Springfield in December 2014. According to reports, the driver of one of the vehicles involved in the crash was traveling at a speed of 113 mph, far above the speed limit. He is believed to have collided with the back of a Jeep, having decelerated beforehand, but not enough to avoid the crash. The impact resulted in the death of his passenger.
The 51-year-old victim was a friend of the driver and a father of five. The driver was allegedly found to have had a blood alcohol content that was over double the legal limit, measuring at 0.194 percent. Evidence that he had used marijuana within the prior three days was also found via a urine test. He has since been charged with reckless endangerment, aggravated assault and vehicular homicide while driving drunk.
If you have been injured by a drunk driver or you have lost a loved one in a DUI accident, you may be feeling shaken, upset or even angry. It can be hard to move forward when you are still recovering from the shock of such an incident and taking legal action may seem like too much to think about. However, a successful claim may help to relieve some of the financial burden of your experience, even if it cannot truly make up for the harm caused. An attorney may be able to advise you about your options and guide you through the legal process.
Source: Delaware County Daily Times, “Officer: Springfield man driving 113 mph before fatal accident,” Alex Rose, Aug. 6, 2015
