A couple in South Carolina was recently killed when their motorcycle was struck from the rear. The driver deemed responsible is believed to have been driving while impaired when the incident occurred. The victims’ surviving family members may be entitled to pursue wrongful death claims against this individual as a result.
In the early morning hours of Sunday, July 3, a 35-year-old male driving a sedan is said to have rear-ended a motorcycle. The force of impact through the motorcycle driver and passenger — a husband and wife, both 46 — from their vehicle. Neither was wearing a helmet and both victims died at the scene of the crash.
The individual responsible for this wreck reportedly fled the scene, but was soon after caught by authorities and was transported to the Anderson County Detention Center. Bail has been set in his case at $500,000. He has been charged with two counts of felony DUI and leaving the scene of an accident. If convicted, the accused may face a lengthy prison sentence among various other penalties.
It is believed that nearly half of all fatal accidents that occur in South Carolina involve impaired drivers. In such cases, surviving family members may have legal recourse. Wrongful death claims may be filed against those drivers deemed responsible for the deaths of their loved ones. If negligence can be established successfully in civil court, compensation for any damages sustained, such as funeral expenses, loss of income, loss of consortium — and numerous others — may be awarded.
Source: wyff4.com, “Driver charged with DUI in crash, 2 people on motorcycle die“, July 3, 2016