Some people find certain traffic laws annoying. They may feel that there is no need for the law and decide to ignore it. However, all traffic laws are in place to protect the safety of everyone who uses North Carolina roadways, and failure to observe them could have serious consequences. For example, police claim that one driver’s decision to pass another vehicle, even though passing is not allowed in that area, resulted in the death of three people. The tragic accident could ultimately result in a wrongful death case.
In late April, police say that a 17-year-old male was driving on a North Carolina road with three passengers. The teen allegedly began to pass the car in front of him even though he was driving through a No Pass Zone. Reports indicate that he realized he would not be able to make it around the vehicle, causing him to maneuver back into his original lane. However, this action caused him to strike the vehicle in front of him, driven by a 78-year-old man.
This second vehicle proceeded to strike an oncoming vehicle head-on. Unfortunately, the driver of the second vehicle and two children in the third vehicle were killed in the collision. The teenager now faces several charges, including driving without a license and death by motor vehicle.
The surviving family members of the deceased individuals are likely in shock over the news of the senseless death of their loved one. Because of one person’s alleged negligence, three people needlessly lost their lives, causing grief and financial stress to their families. In order to seek relief from some of the financial stress caused by funeral expenses and medical bills, the families of the deceased have the option of filing a wrongful death case in a North Carolina civil court. While a successful verdict will likely do little to lessen their grief, it may help address the financial burdens caused by the accident.
Source: wmbfnews.com, “UPDATE: Teen driver charged in triple fatal“, Zach Hunt, April 26, 2014