Car accidents can happen at any time. Even the most cautious of drivers are sometimes unable to avoid an accident. However, it is the actions afterwards by the person who allegedly caused an accident that can sometimes lead to more trouble than the actual accident itself. One North Carolina teenager faces several charges after he allegedly fled the scene of an accident that caused serious injury to his passenger.
In late June, a 17-year-old teenager was driving with an 18-year-old passenger late at night. According to police reports, the driver lost control of his vehicle, causing him to crash into a tree, striking the passenger side of the vehicle. The driver was not seriously injured.
While witnesses report that the driver did not intend to abandon the scene of the accident, that he was simply going to get his father, he faces several charges that include hit-and-run, reckless driving, driving without a license and underage drinking. First responders report that the passenger was unresponsive when they arrived. He is still listed in critical condition.
There is no doubt the lives of both of these teenagers have been forever altered. While the criminal justice system will attempt to hold the driver responsible for the accident with criminal actions, this will do little to help the passenger with the serious injury. If he recovers, he and his family will have to face thousands of dollars in medical bills. Additionally, his recovery will likely be lengthy, preventing him from working or otherwise pursing a future career. He and his family do have to option of pursuing compensation for the costs incurred as a result of this accident in a North Carolina civil court.
Source: abclocal.go.com, “Teen facing charges in Fayetteville accident,” June 25, 2013