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Drunk driving charges follow Wisconsin car accident

Most drivers are aware of the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and over the speed limit. They are even aware of the potential consequences of their actions. However, many of these same people still engage in these potentially risky behaviors, jeopardizing their personal safety as well as the safety of others. One woman in Wisconsin recently suffered serious injuries as a result of a car accident that police claim happened as a result of such behavior.

The accident happened just after 9 p.m. one night in late September. Police report that the 25-year-old male driver of a sedan was speeding and under the influence of alcohol when he lost control of his vehicle, causing it to strike a tree. It struck with such force, reports indicate, that the car engine was behind it, and a tree was inside the car where the engine should have been.

A 21-year-old female passenger in the vehicle was discovered partially outside of the window, with her leg trapped by the dashboard. Due to the severity of damage to the car, it took rescue workers approximately an hour to extricate her. She was then transported to a hospital by helicopter where she was in the intensive care unit as a result of several injuries to her face. Police say they noted a smell of intoxicants in the vicinity of the driver, and sobriety tests were administered. He has since been charged as a result of the accident.

Due to the severity of physical damage sustained by the car, the injured victim is likely lucky to be alive. As it is, she may face a long road to recovery, resulting in significant medical bills. While a conviction of the criminal charges against the driver is not necessary, such an outcome would ultimately support a claim of negligence in a Wisconsin civil court. If such a claim can be proved, the woman could receive an award of damages that will allow her to cope with the financial consequences of her accident and injuries.

Source: lakecountrynow.com, “East Troy man, 25, charged in town of Mukwonago crash“, Carol Spaeth-Bauer and Erik S. Hanley, Sept. 30, 2015

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