Having a driver’s license provides teenagers with a certain amount of freedom and independence they are not used to. Unfortunately, they may take that new-found freedom too far. Their inexperience behind the wheel only serves to increase the risk of a car crash that could result in serious or fatal injuries.
An accident that took place on a recent Thursday in north-central Minnesota illustrates this fact. Preliminary reports indicate that three 16-year-old boys and two 16-year-old girls occupied the vehicle in question. At approximately 8 p.m., it went off the road and flipped several times before coming to a stop. During the crash, a 16-year-old girl was thrown from the vehicle and died at the scene as a result of the injuries she suffered.
Two of the teenage boys and the other girl were fortunate enough to escape with only minor injuries. The final teen, the driver, suffered undisclosed injuries for which he was transported to a hospital in the area. At this point, authorities do not believe that alcohol was a factor. However, they do suspect that speed played a role in this tragedy.
Depending on the outcome of the investigation, the driver could face criminal repercussions for his role in this tragic car crash. In addition, the surviving family members of the deceased teenage girl may exercise its right under Minnesota law to file a wrongful death claim seeking restitution for the financial losses and other damages sustained in the aftermath of the accident. Considering the fact that a family in this position may need time to focus on their grief, it may be advantageous to consult with a compassionate and experienced attorney for help in navigating such a claim.