Auto accidents are one of the leading causes of injuries and deaths in the United States. Oklahoma’s motorists know they can avoid most accidents by following traffic rules and regulations and they also can prevent them by driving only while sober. However, there may always be drivers who disobey traffic laws and drive while intoxicated, putting themselves and other people on the road at risk. This is just one form of negligence that can cause a car accident and leave the driver liable to both criminal and civil penalties.
Recently, a 28-year-old female driver who was allegedly driving while intoxicated struck two vehicles, killed a 20-year-old woman and injured two men and one woman in their 20s in Tulsa. Based on a report, the alleged drunken driver was traveling east on 71st Street when she crossed the center line and struck the two westbound vehicles. The suspected drunken driver also sustained undisclosed injuries in the collision. All of those injured were taken to local hospitals for treatment. Tulsa police are still waiting for results of blood taken from the driver who allegedly caused the crash; she remains in the hospital. An accident report will be released once police are done with their investigation.
Car accidents can bring immense pain to families. Even as they grieve for the sudden loss of a loved one, family members usually want answers as to why the accident occurred and whether someone will be prosecuted for the death. The family will want to follow the police investigation closely to determine if they can file a civil suit against the party who caused the crash separate from any criminal charges.
Wrongful death lawsuits often arise when negligence can be shown to have been responsible for someone’s death. The family or estate of the deceased can file the claim.
Source: News9.com, “Investigation continues into wreck that killed Tulsa woman,” Dee Duren, July 30, 2014