For individuals who have been involved in a car accident that resulted in fatality, being considered the overall cause of another person’s death can weigh very heavily upon their mind. It is no small thing and, understandably, local police and the victim’s family members will look at every aspect of the incident to determine exactly what happened. This includes determining if any impairing substances, such as alcohol or drugs, were involved. If any of these types of substances are found to have contributed to the crash, felony DUI charges may be filed, which carry harsh penalties in South Carolina.
A recent fatal accident in South Carolina resulted in the death of one man and the arrest of another. The early morning incident occurred in the beginning of May in Columbia. The deceased victim’s vehicle was supposedly struck from behind, causing his car to leave the road and hit a tree. He was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash.
The individual accused of causing this accident was arrested and is currently facing felony DUI charges. It is unknown if bond has been determined or if court dates have been scheduled in this case. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is still investigating the official cause of the collision.
Felony DUI charges, particularly those in cases that result in death, aren’t taken lightly in South Carolina. The individual accused of causing this crash, and ultimately the death of the victim, could end up paying a significant amount in fines and restitution payments, losing driving privileges and spending years behind bars — if prosecutors are able to secure a conviction. This potential punishments can have devastating consequences to this person’s future prospects. Even so, each accused individual has the right to pursue legal options, such as fighting the allegations or to negotiate a plea deal with authorities, in an effort to obtain the most favorable result possible.
Source: wach.com, “1 dead, 1 arrested in early morning crash that shut down highway“, India Hill, May 2, 2014