Fatal crash leads to criminal charges: Wrongful death claim next?

When an individual makes the decision to drink and drive, he or she sets off a chain of events. In many cases, the driver will make it to their destination safely, and the story will end there. In other instances, however, that decision will lead to an accident and will affect multiple lives, including that of the driver. A recent drunk driving crash in Texas has ended the life of one woman; the driver is now in the early stages of a criminal proceeding. In addition to the criminal ramifications of his actions, he may also face a wrongful death suit brought by the family of the victim.

The incident occurred on July 30, 2012. The 31-year-old woman was travelling with her husband when the crash took place. The drunk driver smashed into an Interstate divider before colliding with another vehicle. During these events, the bumper of his vehicle flew off and hit the car carrying the victim and her husband.

The 31-year-old was killed instantly. She left behind three small children, who will spend their first Christmas without their mother this year. The woman’s mother has been very vocal with the press regarding the case, and has stated repeatedly that she is seeking justice in the matter, and an outcome that will send a loud message that drinking and driving is simply not acceptable in American society.

The driver, a 25-year-old male, recently made his first court appearance after his indictment for intoxication assault and intoxication manslaughter, both felonies in Texas. As the case moves forward, the victim’s family may get the justice that they seek. They also have the right to file a wrongful death suit against the driver, which could help them recover damages associated with their loss and provide for the needs of the three children left behind in this tragic course of events.

Source: KiiiTV3.com, “Suspect in fatal crash makes court appearance,” Ellie Cano, Dec. 11, 2012