Maryland man learns fate after drunk driving accident

Enjoying an evening out with friends is a common occurrence for many people. Some will designate a driver to ensure they make it to their intended destinations once the party is over. Others underestimate how inebriated they truly are and decide to get behind the wheel, putting not only their lives but the lives of others at risk. One Maryland man has recently learned his fate when his negligent choice lead to the death of a woman in a drunk driving accident.

A 25-year-old male was recently sentenced to four years in jail after pleading guilty to negligent homicide. After he serves his prison sentence, he will then have five years of closely supervised probation. The man will also have to complete a drug and alcohol education program and use an ignition interlock for two years during his probation period.

The man and his victim, a 21-year-old woman, had been out drinking with friends at a local pub. Around 3 a.m. authorities were called to the scene where his car had struck a tree. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene, and the man, who was operating the vehicle, was lying outside of the car talking to authorities with slurred speech. Bloodwork later indicated his blood alcohol level was well above the legal limit. The man was currently on probation for a previous charge of driving under the influence.

When a drunk driving accident results in serious injury or death, the victim or the surviving family of a deceased victim may be entitled to financial compensation. Filing a claim in civil court for monetary damages, if successful, may help the family to cover any medical or final cost that are a direct result of the accident. Those affected by such a tragedy can consult a Maryland attorney to investigate the validity of the claim and what steps may be involved in asserting it.

Source: Columbia, MD Patch, “Driver Sentenced In Deadly Columbia Road Crash“, Elizabeth Janney, July 19, 2017