One simple act of negligence -- such as running a red light -- can have fatal consequences. A woman recently ran a red light at an Ohio intersection and hit another car, killing the driver. Two other vehicles were involved in the multi-car accident as well.
The fatal car crash occurred in Jackson Township -- several hours outside Dayton -- on the afternoon of Feb. 14. A woman was traveling east when she was hit by a woman driving an SUV westbound. The driver of the SUV had failed to stop at a red light. The woman in the other vehicle was seriously injured and taken to a local hospital, where she later died.
The accident didn't end there. The SUV spun around and hit a minivan. As the SUV rolled backward, it hit a pickup truck. In total, four vehicles were involved. The driver of the SUV and a passenger received medical treatment for injuries.
Police are still investigating the accident. It is possible that the driver of the SUV could face charges.
The woman's negligence -- failing to obey a traffic signal -- could result in criminal charges, such as vehicular manslaughter. In addition, drivers, like this woman, can face a wrongful death lawsuit from the victim's family. Even though the driver did not intend to kill anyone else, drivers have a duty to obey traffic laws and exercise care when driving on the roadway. When drivers are reckless in their actions they may have to compensate the family of the victim for their loss.
Damages are determined by many factors, such as the age of the person, earnings and family situation, including if there are young children left behind. In addition, the court will factor in monetary damages, such as lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses.
Source: Akron Beacon Journal, "Car accident kills woman in Jackson Township," Feb. 14, 2014
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