Consuming alcohol and then driving is a dangerous, irresponsible and illegal combination. Unfortunately, some individuals in Virginia will flout the laws against drunk driving, risking not only their lives but the lives of those around them.
According to police, a minivan carrying three passengers was behind a vehicle stopped at a red light at an intersection when a Virginia Beach man behind the wheel of an SUV struck the minivan from behind. The force of the impact sent the minivan crashing into the vehicle in front of it. Three individuals in the minivan suffered injuries in the crash. Unfortunately, one of these individuals, a 23-year-old woman who had been seated in the front seat, passed away at the hospital due to her injuries.
To make matters worse, it appears that the driver of the SUV may have been drunk when the accident occurred. He has been charged with refusing to take a blood test and driving under the influence.
The deceased had graduated from Virginia Wesleyan College and was a student at Eastern Virginia Medical School. She had her whole life ahead of her but it was tragically cut short. Her family members and friends are grieving her loss, especially since it allegedly was due to another person’s poor choices and probably could have been prevented.
While the suspected drunk driver has been charged criminally in the incident, those in Virginia who are the victims of drunk driving accidents may also want to learn more about pursuing a civil lawsuit against the drunk driver. Drunk driving in general is considered per se negligent behavior by our legal system, and it could lead to liability depending on the specific circumstances. This woman’s death is a tragic reminder that drunk driving accidents can happen to just about anyone. It is important for victims and their families to know what their legal options are.
Source: 13NewsNow.com, “Mother mourns daughter killed in suspected DUI crash,” April 25, 2016