Intersections can be among the most dangerous places to travel. An intersection is where other drivers tend to make rash decisions and sometimes fatal mistakes. Vehicles crossing each other’s paths can make for risky travel when every driver is not paying attention. Motor vehicle accidents at intersections can often result in catastrophic and even fatal injuries.
One Virginia man is facing serious charges following an early evening accident at a multi-lane intersection. Police received a call shortly after 8 p.m. of a collision involving two vehicles. When emergency responders arrived, they found the driver of one vehicle with critical injuries. The driver of the other vehicle had apparently fled the scene on foot. Leaving the scene could result in additional charges. Although paramedics attempted to save the accident victim, her injuries were too severe, and she died at the scene.
Locating and charging the driver
Police quickly located the driver of the second vehicle. He had suffered only minor injuries, but officers suspected he had been drinking. A blood alcohol test proved he was well above the legal limit. Driving after having a few beers may seem like a harmless action. You may feel like you can “handle your alcohol” better than most. You may think you are “just fine to drive.” But what you probably aren’t considering is that your decision to drive while possibly under the influence (DUI) can be fatal to not only yourself, but to others on the roadway. Additionally, evidence at the scene suggested that he had been speeding at the time of the accident. Police later learned that the man apparently had two previous DWI convictions in the past 10 years, which means he is facing several felony charges, including involuntary manslaughter and reckless driving.
The family of the 47-year-old victim is likely dealing with the shock of losing their loved one in such a tragic manner. Motor vehicle accidents involving impaired or speeding drivers can be difficult to understand, and it may take considerable time to cope with the aftermath. It is understandable that those in such situations would be looking for answers and information about their options for seeking justice through the civil courts.