A traffic accident that results in loss of life is a tragedy. However, when people die because of drunk driving accidents, it is especially horrific. A family is mourning the death of their loved one because one person drove drunk. In New Jersey and every other state, there are steep penalties for drunk driving.
A serious crash occurred Dec. 22 at about 3:30 p.m. on a two-lane road in Middle Smithfield Township. The operator of a white pickup truck was traveling north when traffic ahead slowed for left turning vehicles. The truck crossed over the yellow lines, striking a silver sedan. Police reported that the pickup truck had stolen license plates, and the driver had a suspended license. Many charges were filed against the driver, including six counts each of aggravated assault and reckless endangerment, driving under the influence and manslaughter.
Emergency personnel could not revive the driver of the sedan at the scene. He was later pronounced dead at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Pocono. A passenger was transported by helicopter to Lehigh Valley Medical Center Cedar Crest and is in serious condition in the intensive care unit. All three passengers and the driver of the pickup truck were transported via ambulance to an area hospital for treatment.
When someone drives drunk, the results can be devastating. Victims and their families suffer emotional, physical and financial losses from these preventable drunk driving accidents. In New Jersey, those injured in accidents such as these may benefit from the direction of a knowledgeable personal injury attorney. An experienced lawyer can assess the situation and determine what legal options are available to them.
Source: poconorecord.com, “DUI implicated in fatal crash“, Howard Frank, Dec. 22, 2017