Holiday car accident in Maryland kills 1, hurts 9

Maryland holidays are typically a time when many people take to the roadways to visit family and loved ones. With the increase of vehicles on highways, the likelihood of being involved in a car accident increases. When someone gets behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the odds of an auto accident increase significantly.

Nine people have been injured and another person has died in a car accident that occurred around 5:30 p.m. in Anne Arundel County. A vehicle heading northbound on a busy road crossed the center line and side-swiped a car in Churchton. The driver of the vehicle that was hit was transported to a local hospital and treated for injuries not considered life-threatening. The two passengers in the struck vehicle suffered minor injuries but refused medical treatment.

The vehicle that crossed center then hit another car that was headed southbound on the same roadway. The driver and two of the front passengers and one rear seat passenger in the southbound vehicle suffered minor injuries. Another rear seat passenger, an 87-year-old woman, suffered serious injury and was transported to a local hospital where she succumbed to her injuries the following day.

The driver deemed responsible for the accidents was transported to a local shock trauma center where doctors say he will survive his injuries. Authorities suspect that speed and a wet roadway were contributing factors to the incident and are also awaiting a blood-alcohol count to confirm suspicions of driving while under the influence. The investigation is ongoing.

A car accident can change the lives of many, not just those involved in the accident. Family members can be left with medical bills, lost wages and sometimes final costs that are often associated with fatal crashes. For those who have suffered injuries or the loss of a loved one due to the negligence of a driver, financial compensation may be available. A Maryland personal injury lawyer can help families and victims learn of their options to seek legal recourse in a civil court.

Source: abc2news.com, “1 dead, 9 injured during multi-car crash in Churchton”, Dec. 26, 2017