Despite frequent messages warning everyone of the dangers of impaired driving, some people still get behind the wheel when they are in no condition to safely operate a motor vehicle. Most people who do so probably assume they will make it to their destination with no damage done, and although this does sometimes happen, no driver should be taking a chance on people’s lives. Often, this type of irresponsible behavior ends tragically, with seriously injured victims and sometimes fatalities. Unfortunately, such was the case when three young adults were killed in a crash in Pennsylvania, and the driver, among the deceased, was found to have had a blood-alcohol level of nearly twice the legal limit at the time of the incident. The victims’ families may have cause to file lawsuits, including wrongful death claims.
Driver traveling at unsafe speed hits trees
The horrific crash happened one evening earlier this year. According to police, the driver, a 23-year-old college student from Chadds Ford, was traveling at an unsafe speed along Lanark Road. The vehicle left the road on a curve, leading to the driver overcorrecting and steering the car in the other direction and across south and north lanes of the roadway. The car then struck two trees and became engulfed in flames. Reportedly, nearby neighbors attempted to rescue the car’s occupants, and emergency responders did rescue one passenger, a 22-year-old man.
3 fatalities, passenger severely injured
Sadly, the driver and two other passengers, a 21-year-old man and a 24-year-old woman, died in the fiery crash. The passenger who was rescued was taken to a hospital with severe injuries. He has spent several weeks undergoing multiple surgeries; a hospital spokesperson has said he was recently discharged from the hospital and will now begin an outpatient rehabilitation program. Apparently, an online fundraiser has been launched to help cover his medical expenses.
Police recently revealed the crash investigation findings and have stated the driver was not only driving while impaired, but he was also speeding at the time of the crash. Although the driver is among the deceased, the surviving passenger and/or family members of the other two victims may want to explore their legal options within the Pennsylvania civil justice system. The decedent’s estate and/or any other parties with ownership interest in the vehicle could be held accountable. Experienced attorneys are available to provide legal advice and ongoing support.