Drunk drivers whose actions cause the wrongful death of others can face serious criminal charges ranging from financial penalties to community service and even time in jail. It is possible, however, for them to also face civil liability if a victim sues them, or if certain survivors sue those victims. Criminal proceedings: Criminal proceedings
Drunk drivers whose actions cause the wrongful death of others can face serious criminal charges ranging from financial penalties to community service and even time in jail. It is possible, however, for them to also face civil liability if a victim sues them, or if certain survivors sue those victims.
- Criminal proceedings: Criminal proceedings are in place to protect the public from any future harm which may be caused by the alleged drunk driver. It is also used as a way to punish a drunk driver for his or her negligence and recklessness
- Civil proceedings: Civil proceedings only occur if someone is suing the alleged drunk driver. With this type of lawsuit you can recover a number of damages, including medical costs and treatment, damaged property, lost wages, and other economic damages you may have suffered
Drunk drivers can receive criminal and civil charges.
A Recent Example
A girlfriend has been sued for wrongful death after her alleged negligence resulted in the death of her boyfriend.
In May 2017 the young woman and her boyfriend entered the Cerrillos Road exit near the I-25 southbound in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Their car collided with another vehicle, forcing the boyfriend to be ejected from the vehicle. He was transported to a hospital and placed on life support, but after a week his family decided to take him off life support.
Girlfriend Allegedly Drunk When Incident Occurred
The girlfriend was allegedly drunk at the time of the accident. She was also charged with careless driving and great bodily harm by vehicle.
The victim’s family has since filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the driver and her parents based on her being allowed to drive a vehicle that was registered to them and because the parents were aware of their daughters’ previous unspecified minor traffic charges.
Wrongful Death Suits Ensure Economic Stability for Families
When a loved one loses his or her life because of a drunk driver, it has a significant emotional and economic impact on family members. Filing a wrongful death suit ensures that everyone negatively affected by a negligent driver are at least financially compensated for their losses, and they are able to secure a more steady and stable financial future.
The Law Office of Samuel I. Kane P.A. in Las Cruces and surrounding New Mexico communities is committed to helping families recover from the untimely loss of a loved one, and we invite you call us today at (575) 541-3004.
Related Links:
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Causes of Wrongful Death in Las Cruces
Wrongful Death Suit Filed after Young Mom Dies Unexpectedly
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Wrongful Death Claimed As Man Ejected from Girlfriend’s Car
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