Car accidents are certainly an unfortunate part of life for many South Carolina residents. Sadly, some of these accidents result in fatalities. When this happens, local law enforcement will look at any and all possible causes for the incident. One of the first causes officers try to rule out is impaired driving. Those who are deemed responsible for fatal car crashes, and who are believed to have been intoxicated at the time of the collision, could face felony DUI charges.
Recently, a 26-year-old man was arrested in connection with a fatal accident that occurred in mid-November. Very few details were released regarding this incident; however, police have indicated that the accident, which happened in the western part of the state, claimed the life of a 27-year-old male. It has been reported that both drivers were not wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.
The individual believed to be responsible for this incident has been charged with having an open container in his vehicle and felony DUI. It is unknown if he is currently being held by police, or if he has been released on bond. It was not reported whether any court dates have been arranged for this case.
In South Carolina, felony DUI and open container charges can carry stiff penalties. The accused in this particular incident is facing a number of potential penalties, which could include a lengthy imprisonment and a significant sum due in fines. As these, and the many other possible penalties, can have such a dramatic impact on this individual’s life, a strategic criminal defense may prove beneficial in this case. A variety of legal options may be open to the accused that will keep his best interests front and center.
Source: islandpacket.com, “Greenwood man charged with DUI in fatal wreck”, Dec. 18, 2014