Another victim of drunk-driving accident dies

A drunk-driving accident in Austin, Tx last month that left several people dead and numerous others injured has reportedly resulted in a fourth death.

The most recent death was an 18-year Fort Worth man who was injured after being run over by the driver, who was apparently attempting to escape police at the time.  The victim was one of those standing in a crowd that the driver plowed into.

The driver of the vehicle has been charged with capital murder and aggravated assault with a motor vehicle in connection with the incident. Prosecutors, who hope to add on additional charges, say the driver intentionally steered his vehicle into the crowd, which had gathered for the popular South By Southwest festival.

Sources didn’t provide any details regarding potential civil charges in connection with the incident. It wouldn’t be surprising in such a case to see personal injury or wrongful death charges filed against the offending motorist. One factor motivating such litigation, of course, would be whether accident victims hope to obtain any significant recovery from the driver.

In some motor vehicle accidents involving extensive damages, the offender is not truly able to compensate the victims the way they deserve to be compensated. This, of course, can limit victim’s ability to receive financial assistance for their injuries and losses. Two things that a good personal injury would look into in such cases would be other potential sources of liability and punitive damages.

Sometimes achieving adequate recovery is only possible by turning to another liable party who has the means to compensate victims. As far as punitive damages, it is important to work with an experienced attorney, because they are not easy to get and can take more commitment to litigation. For accident victims who are interested in pursuing such a course, though, it can be another way to achieve some measure of justice.

Source: Huffington Post, “4^th Person Dies After SXSW Car Crash,” March 27, 2014.