Boston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Blog
Graduation, summer, and the end of the school year means parties and more inexperienced drivers on the road. This excitement combined with alcohol use and parties can make summer a dangerous time for teen drivers and anyone else sharing the road. In a recent accident, a 17-year-old driver was headed to graduation rehearsal when he slammed into two women on their morning walk around 7 a.m. Authorities say he was intoxicated at the time of the collision. The New Hampshire teen is now facing criminal charges, including aggravated driving while intoxicated.
Drunk driving can be deadly, especially when accidents occur at high speeds or on the interstate. Fortunately, the victims in this case survived the accident, but they suffered serious, possibly life-altering injuries. Our Boston drunk driving injury attorneys understand the severe loss and impact suffered by accident victims and their loved ones. We know that recovery is a long road and can take months or years. Our priority is to help victims recover maximum compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, long-term care needs and any other additional costs associated with an accident.
According to reports, the 17-year-old was drunk behind the wheel of his Volvo as he navigated Ocean Boulevard on the way to his graduation rehearsal. The teen allegedly crossed over the center lane and hit the victims, aged 60 and 69. Both of the victims were thrown, and one was hit so hard that she was knocked out of her shoes. Immediately following the accident, emergency responders were called to the scene. The victims were taken to area hospitals and eventually were transferred to Beth Israel in Boston and Massachusetts General Hospital.
The driver was released on $25,000 bail and turned in his license. He is facing criminal charges and must obey a 9 p.m. curfew. He is also forbidden from using drugs or alcohol until he appears in court on June 25. Police records and the criminal charges in this case can be used against the defendant in a civil case. It is unknown whether the victims or their families will file a civil case against the defendant. A personal injury claim would give the victims the ability to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, long-term care needs, medical devices, and any other losses endured by the family.
For victims of a drunk driving accident, the consequences are often deep and lasting. If you were injured or lost a loved one in a drunk driving accident, remember that you do have rights. Immediately after an accident, it is important to consult with an experienced advocate about your claims. Do not settle with an insurance company or with a defendant driver until you know the value of your case. You may be entitled to significantly more than an initial settlement offer. For victims, the full extent of damages may take time to assess. An experienced advocate can help you protect your rights and navigate the legal process.
Call Jeffrey S. Glassman for a free and confidential appointment at (617) 777-7777.
More Blog Entries:
NHTSA Urges Ignition Interlock Devices for all Drunk Driving Offenders, Boston Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Blog, December 28, 2013
State Trooper Accused of Being Drunk, Refuses to Cooperate After Accident, May 12, 2014, Boston Drunk Driving Injury Lawyer Blog