No one expects that, while out and about running errands or enjoying some family time, something bad will happen to them. Unfortunately, accidents do happen, and these accidents can drastically alter the course of the lives of those involved. Recently, a car crash caused by an allegedly drunk driver is to blame for the tragic loss of five members of a Central California family. This seemingly senseless loss of life is sure to leave any surviving family members trying to understand what happened and wanting justice served against the driver responsible.
The accident was a fairly recent event that occurred in a residential neighborhood in Lodi. Little information has been released on this incident, but it was reported that the family’s pickup truck was struck by another vehicle that was supposedly driving at a high rate of speed. Five people in the truck were killed in the accident, including a woman who was pregnant. There hasn’t been any information given on any survivors of this accident.
The driver deemed responsible for this accident, a 28-year-old male, allegedly had a blood alcohol level that was well above the state’s limit at the time of the accident. He was arrested and charged with DUI, murder and other charges relating to the incident. In recent court proceedings, he pleaded not guilty to all the charges against him. The final outcome of this case is still to be determined.
A car crash caused by a drunk driver can have life-altering effects on those involved. The surviving family members may be left with a significant financial burden from the unexpected expenses that often result from car accidents. They may be able to pursue wrongful death claims for each of the victims killed in this incident. If liability is established against the driver responsible, a California civil court may award financial restitution to the victim’s family. While no amount of money can bring back the lives lost, it could help cover expenses for necessary medical recovery and ease any financial strain caused by this terrible event.
Source: sanluisobispo.com, Man pleads not guilty in deadly California crash, No author, Jan. 28, 2014