Ratanza Winters-Gardner killed in Bartow rear-end crash: GSP

DUI ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION

Impaired drivers pose a danger to others on the road and can have serious consequences when a collision occurs.

“Drunken and drugged drivers are subject to criminal charges following an accident or collision that causes harm or kills another person,” said Candice Bond, a Managing Partner at Bond Legal.

Bond added that, separate from criminal charges, a victim’s family may be entitled to pursue compensation through a civil lawsuit against the responsible party.

According to the National Safety Council, 10 percent of all fatal automobile accidents are caused by drivers operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol, drugs or other medications. These crashes are the second-leading cause of automobile fatalities in the United States.

WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM

Pending the investigation, the family of a victim could be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim. Relatives of wrongful death victims may seek damages for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress after a tragic or catastrophic accident.

Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, said losing a loved one in an accident can cause significant stress and sorrow.

Formica added that families may face difficult circumstances following a fatal crash and said protecting their rights is important. He said a wrongful death lawyer can remain informed about the official investigation and help protect the family’s legal rights and best interests.

(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)