Tennessee woman may face personal injury claims after fatal crash

A woman convicted of driving under the influence in Tennessee has been sentenced recently for the death of a 4-year-old boy and his grandfather. She was sentenced to 50 years in prison with an option for parole in 15 years. The collision also left another man paralyzed, and two families devastated. The 45-year-old woman has had repeated run-ins with the law involving DUI and driving on a revoked license and may now face additional personal injury claims against her.

This accident that claimed the two lives and injured the third man occurred in July 2011. Her sentencing came after she pleaded guilty in August to one count each of aggravated vehicular homicide and aggravated vehicular assault. She also pleaded guilty to her third DUI and her second conviction for driving on a revoked license. Police reports indicate that she may have been going as fast as 60 mph in a 30 mph zone when the she collided with several vehicles.

Even though she has been convicted of these Tennessee crimes, she could still face additional legal action in civil court by those injured or by the families of those killed that day. The parents of the 4-year-old boy are entitled to file a wrongful death claim against her seeking monetary damages for the child’s death. Likewise, a similar action could be pursued on behalf of the grandfather.

Further, the paralyzed man can seek restitution in a personal injury action for medical costs and other damages he has sustained. He may require lifelong care now to assist him, or complete care if the damage is extensive. Both families may benefit from seeking counsel to evaluate the claims and determine what legal steps they may wish to pursue as a result of this tragedy.

Source: newschannel5.com, “Woman Sentenced To 50 Years For Deadly DUI Crash,” Oct. 16, 2012