Serious Legal Problems Require Serious Representation

Two killed in drunk-driving accident

On Behalf of | Mar 5, 2015 | Car Accidents

Even though Virginia motorists are well-aware of the serious consequences of drunk driving and distracted driving, many cases of drunk driving accidents with resulting personal injury or wrongful deaths are still being reported. In a recent case, a 29-year-old female alleged drunk driver was charged in connection with a car accident that killed two motorcyclists.

The woman faces three charges, including driving under influence manslaughter, driving a vehicle with a revoked or suspended license and involuntary manslaughter. According to police, the alleged drunk driver’s vehicle crossed the Pittsylvania County, Virginia, road’s center line and rammed into three Harley-Davidson riders.

Drunk driving is one of the most common causes of car or motorcycle accidents. The most probable reason why drunk driving accidents continue to happen may be a loophole in the required use of blood alcohol content (BAC) testing administered by police officers. Some U.S. states have mandatory BAC testing, while others have discretionary BAC testing for suspected drunk drivers.

Mandatory testing requires BAC testing for everyone, including the driver, pedestrians and passengers who have incurred serious injuries in an accident. Discretionary testing requires BAC testing only for individuals who have incurred serious injuries in an accident. More than half of U.S. states have mandatory BAC testing laws and more than 10 states have discretionary BAC testing laws.

If a victim is hit by a drunk driver, it is possible to claim damages through a civil lawsuit. However, seeking damages is not easy because it requires a legal understanding of personal injury laws. If a victim lacks such knowledge, he or she should consult with a personal injury attorney with extensive experience in litigating DUI cases. This professional can help a victim evaluate evidence and formulate a case.

Source: WSET-TV,” Danville Woman Indicted in Accident that Killed Two Motorcyclists,” Valerie Bragg, Feb. 24, 2015