It is well known that impairment compromises an individual’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. One of the first things most Minnesota residents learn as they get their driver’s licenses is that drugged and/or drunk driving can easily lead to a deadly car crash. Sadly, far too many people continue to drive in this condition and far too many people lose their lives as a result.
For instance, records indicate that a 34-year-old man now faces numerous criminal charges in connection with the death of his 20-year-old girlfriend. She died in an accident in which her boyfriend was driving. Reports indicate that as the man drove south on Highway 7/59 he suddenly turned left toward a bar in the area. Unfortunately, he failed to make sure there was no oncoming traffic at the time.
An SUV headed north at the time was unable to avoid colliding with the man’s vehicle. The woman died at the scene. When police arrived, they could smell marijuana and alcohol emanating from the vehicle and recovered drug paraphernalia and a beer can. After testing, methamphetamine and amphetamine were found in the man’s system. It was also discovered that his driver’s license was suspended at the time of the crash.
The man now faces charges including criminal vehicular homicide, DUI-drugs and criminal vehicular operation. The family of the deceased passenger may seek to use any evidence presented by prosecutors, along with any conviction secured in connection with the car crash, as evidence in a wrongful death claim in civil court. Successfully proving negligence or recklessness on the part of a driver believed responsible for a death could result in an award of damages that may help with the inevitable financial losses associated with the loss of a loved one.