The potential dangers of driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol are well-known. Unfortunately, many people in Wisconsin and across the country continue to make the poor decision to get behind the wheel while inebriated. Police in Wisconsin believe that drugs may have played a role in a fatal car accident. The driver of the only vehicle involved has since been charged.
The accident happened in Oct. 2014. Reports indicate that a 22-year-old man was driving a van that left the roadway and slammed into a tree. A 45-year-old male passenger died at the scene of the accident. The driver reportedly told police that he had a history of seizures, which he claims could have caused the accident.
Police, however, claim toxicology reports revealed marijuana in his system as well as a chemical found in cocaine which could cause seizures. There was no evidence of medication related to a seizure disorder. The driver reportedly told police that he had smoked marijuana days before the crash, but not the day of the accident. Reports indicate that he also told police that he had let his seizure medication lapse. He now faces several criminal charges as a result of the accident, including reckless homicide.
A family is now left mourning the loss of their loved as a result of the car accident. Additionally, they may be struggling with the financial ramifications of the accident, including funeral costs and lost wages. Many people in Wisconsin who have found themselves in a similar situation have chosen to file a wrongful death case. If negligence can be proved, a court could order a monetary award be paid to help with such expenses and related damages.
Source: gazettextra.com, “Man charged with homicide in town of Lyons crash”, Andrea Anderson, March 17, 2015
