A man is facing criminal charges after a car accident that police say was caused by a faulty brake system. Colorado authorities contend the man, 29 years old, was aware of the brake issue and drove the vehicle anyway, leading to the injury of a 6-year-old girl who was a passenger in the vehicle at the time of the crash. As with most car accidents, this incident is still under investigation by local police.
According to the accident report, the man was driving eastbound on a local roadway in Colorado Springs on the morning of May 4 when the accident occurred. Reportedly, the man ran a red light before crashing into a construction trailer being hauled by another vehicle. The girl, who was unrestrained in the front seat, was rushed to a local hospital with unknown injuries. She is currently recovering.
It is unknown whether the man suffered any injuries as a result of the crash. However, there is no mention of him being taken to a hospital. He was arrested by officers on the scene and charged with vehicular assault, as well as felony child abuse. If convicted, he could face significant penalties, including fines and jail time.
As with most car accidents, in addition to any criminal sentencing that might result from the trial, Colorado law also allows the family of the injured girl to file a personal injury lawsuit against him in civil court. Given the nature of the accident, the fact that the man lost control of the vehicle is likely sufficient to establish negligence in civil court. It would have been his responsibility to ensure her safety in the vehicle, including proper restraints and seating. The family may be able to use evidence gathered by police to support a claim for monetary damages in civil court.
Source: krdo.com, “Colorado Springs man charged for car crash that injured girl, 6 “, Andrew McMillan, May 10, 2018
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