For most mothers — or woman soon to become mothers — Mother’s Day is a time for celebration and love. Unfortunately, the day turned to tragedy this year for one California family when a pregnant woman reportedly fell victim to a driver who was under the influence of alcohol. The driver, who could potentially experience a wrongful death lawsuit, has since been taken into police custody.
The accident happened in the evening on Mother’s Day. According to reports, a 44-year-old man struck the rear of a vehicle driven by a 29-year-old woman who was eight months pregnant. The force of the collision pushed the woman’s car into a median where it struck a tree. Both she and her unborn daughter were pronounced dead at the hospital.
Police claim that the driver they believe caused the accident drove away from the scene. He allegedly stopped at a resort where an employee contracted a Lyft driver, allegedly because of the man’s intoxication. After he left, she noticed damage to his vehicle and suspected that he might have been involved in an accident. The Lyft driver informed police about the man’s location, and he was taken into custody. He now faces multiple charges, including vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence.
Although the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol are well-known in California and across the country, many people continue to make risky decisions that put the lives of others at risk. Unfortunately, instead of welcoming new life, a family is now left planning funerals. Many people who have lost a loved one is such a manner have also suffered financially as a result. To help cope with lost wages and funeral expenses, some choose to file a wrongful death suit. A successful suit could result in an award of damages that will help with the financial ramifications of their loss.
Source: fox5sandiego.com, “Pregnant mom killed in Mother’s day hit-and-run crash“, May 14, 2017
