Although many car accidents in Colorado are caused by the weather, the number caused solely by human error is also quite high. Cell phones, finding a decent radio station or even children are distractions that can cause people to have car accidents that cause tremendous damage. Add impairment because of drug or alcohol use, and the chances of having an accident skyrocket.
Police say a recent early evening collision may have been the result of driving under the influence on the part of a 27-year-old man. Not many details were given in a report on the accident but the man, who was driving a pickup truck, crashed into the back end of a Toyota Camry. The force of the collision caused the driver of the Camry to be thrown out of the car. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
There were two passengers in the Camry who were injured, but both were treated for their injuries by responding medical personnel. The driver of the truck drove away after the crash but was followed by a witness, who reported his whereabouts to the police. Once police caught up with the driver, their assessment of him was that his motor skills had been affected by drug use or alcohol consumption. He is being charged with vehicular homicide.
Whether or not this man is convicted of the charge against him, he may be facing legal action by the family of the woman killed at the scene. They have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit against him, seeking recovery of monetary damages incurred as a result of the tragic accident. Colorado residents who have lost loved ones in car accidents or in any situation where another person’s negligence is the cause also have the right to legal recourse in civil court. An attorney familiar with applicable personal injury laws can answer any questions and help pursue financial redress from those parties deemed responsible.
Source: koaa.com, “Pueblo PD identifies driver and victim in fatal crash on Highway“, May 5, 2017