Man Sentenced to Prison for Role in Drunk Driving Accident

Driving while impaired can lead to serious consequences, including possible jail time and/or fines. It can also result in an accident. Although New Jersey drivers are made aware of the dangers of drunk driving, many people continue to take the risk and get behind the wheel after drinking. Sadly, this negligent action can cause a serious drunk driving accident that could take the life of an innocent bystander.

In Nov. 2014, a 20-year-old man lost his life in an accident caused by a drunk driver. The man, his younger brother, and sister had attended a movie and were walking to a pedestrian bridge when the incident occurred. Police say the driver was speeding at the time when he hit the brothers. The younger brother survived the accident but suffered injuries.

The driver was arrested several weeks after the incident in another state.  He was apprehended after he was found hiding under a bed. Authorities say the man had bought plane tickets and planned to flee the country. The driver pleaded guilty to manslaughter earlier this year and has been sentenced to 15 years in prison.

To lose a loved one unexpectedly can be inconceivable for a family, especially when the deceased is very young.  It can be particularly difficult when the death is caused by an irresponsible act of another. In the event of a death resulting from a drunk driving accident, families can file a wrongful death claim. A successfully litigated claim can help cover end-of-life expenses and any other monetary damages. Families facing similar situations would benefit from enlisting the help of a New Jersey attorney to begin the filing process.

Source: njherald.com, “Man gets 15-year prison term in deadly hit-and-run accident”, May 8, 2018