Texas police recently reported that they had been pursuing a driver who had caused a hit-and-run accident when he allegedly caused another tragedy less than 10 minutes later. The second collision resulted in one death and serious injuries to others. The man who is accused of causing the drunk driving accident was reported to have initially fled the scene.
A car was struck at the intersection of Webb Chapel Road and Valwood Parkway. A female passenger in the car was immediately transported to a nearby hospital and was pronounced dead upon arrival. According to police, the driver of that vehicle also suffered serious injuries but is expected to survive.
The man who is suspected of causing this accident, as well as a hit and run that occurred in another location moments earlier, allegedly fled the accident scene. Police reported that he later returned to the site and was arrested. After being released from the hospital, the 27 year old is being held in jail with a set bail of $50,000. He now faces intoxicated manslaughter charges, in addition to failure to stop and render aid and aggravated assault by deadly weapon.
Texas law protects the rights of those who are injured in a vehicular accident caused by another person’s negligent or reckless actions to file a personal injury claim in court. When a drunk driving accident has led to a person’s untimely death, the immediate family members who survive the decedent may file a wrongful death action on behalf of his or her estate. Accidents involving alcohol often cause victims and their families to suffer serious damages for which the court may award monetary compensation as retribution for their pain and suffering.
Source: The Dallas Morning News, “Farmers Branch woman killed Friday night in crash involving drunken driver”, Tasha Tsiaperas, March 21, 2015