Drunk driving accidents can occur in a car collision, but they also can leave helpless victims on the side of a freeway, in pedestrian and bike crashes, or in a recent case, when a drunk driver slammed through the wall of an apartment structure and killed a 16-year-old girl. This is another tragedy that reminds us of the dangers of drunk driving. The case has given rise to criminal charges against the driver, but may also result in civil penalties and a wrongful death case. Any case involving suspected drunk driving should be reviewed by an experienced victims’ advocate.
The innocent victim was a teenage girl sleeping in her bed. Our Boston drunk driving accident attorneys are dedicated to victims’ rights and to seeking justice in drunk driving injury and wrongful death cases. We understand that every situation deserves an independent and thorough investigation to determine cause and identify responsible parties. In this case, the driver has been charged criminally and may face additional civil penalties.
According to the L.A. Times, the accident occurred early Easter morning when a drunk driver, allegedly driving at speed upwards of 80 miles per hour, lost control of his vehicle and smashed into the bedroom of the 16-year-old victim. Authorities reported that she was killed on impact and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Witnesses told police that he sped out of control and crashed into the bedroom. Good Samaritans in the neighborhood stayed at the scene of the crash and kept the driver on the scene until the authorities arrived. According to reports, the driver of the SUV lived across the street from the victim. Police officers are still investigating the accident, but suspect that the driver missed his turn and turned too late and too fast, causing him to lose control of his vehicle.
Immediately after the accident, the 20-year-old driver was taken into custody on suspicion of drunk driving. He was brought to a hospital where he was treated for minor injuries. After he was treated at the hospital, he was booked at the Los Angeles County Jail and has been charged with felony manslaughter. His bail has been set at $100,000. If convicted, the driver will likely face loss of license, fines, and jail time. In addition to criminal penalties, the family of the victim may be able to pursue a civil action against the driver, his insurance company, and any other liable entities.
The tragedy struck a close family and a sister who said that her little sister meant everything to her. In incidents like this, victims and their families are forced to face unbearable tragedy because of the negligence and egregious recklessness of drunk drivers. The teen’s high school friends hosted a candle light vigil outside of the crash site in honor of the life lost too soon. In the event of a drunk driving accident, victims and their families should consult with an experienced advocate who can investigate the facts of the case and hold all liable parties accountable.
Call Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers for a free and confidential appointment — (617) 777-7777.
More Blog Entries:
Alleged Drunk Natick Driver Reports Own Accident, Boston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Blog, February 1, 2014
Weekend DUI Down, Drunk Driving Fatalities Up, Boston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Blog, January 15, 2014