Driving while under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances is a risky and often deadly decision. Intoxicated drivers are not as cognizant, and reflexes can be slowed or impaired. Car accidents that result from DUIs do not necessarily injure or kill the driver responsible, but those who are unfortunate enough to be in or near the road at the same time could be. A Tennessee man stands accused of driving while under the influence after causing multiple car accidents, including a hit and run, that left one victim dead.
A 39-year-old male has been accused of causing an accident involving four other vehicles, including a possible hit-and-run. The man first struck another vehicle and then apparently fled the scene. Police say he then proceeded to head toward a busy intersection. Witnesses of the second accident say it occurred at the intersection when the allegedly intoxicated man veered into oncoming traffic and then overcorrected back into the northbound lanes and struck four vehicles.
A 41-year-old male was killed as a result of that accident. Four other victims were treated at the scene for injuries not thought to be life-threatening. According to authorities who responded to the crash, the accused smelled of alcohol and had several empty beer containers in his vehicle. The man was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Upon release, authorities intend to charge the man with vehicular manslaughter among other charges.
Losing a loved is often devastating, especially when the loss is unexpected. The emptiness left by the tragedy can leave family members struggling to cope with grief. Anyone who has a lost a loved one as the result of an intoxicated or otherwise negligent driver has the right to file a wrongful death claim in a Tennessee civil court. Victims injured in car accidents that are a direct result of a driver’s negligence are typically entitled to file personal injury claims in civil court. Compensation gained from a successful lawsuit can help cover medical costs, lost wages and other damages recognized by applicable laws.
Source: wsmv.com, “Police: Drunken driver caused deadly wreck in Old Hickory”, Kara Apel, Feb. 23, 2018