A 45-year-old woman from Glynn County has been charged with vehicular homicide, in addition to a host of other offenses that include hit-and-run, following too closely, failing to maintain a lane, passing on the right and speeding. The charges followed a July 30 high-speed chase on the F.J. Torras Causeway.
According to reports, the woman raced her 2011 Jaguar XF at speeds up to 105 mph, eventually veering off the road and onto a nearby bike path. In the process, she hit a 2011 Hyundai, clipped a speed limit sign and ultimately lost control of her vehicle. When she did, she hit the 1995 Chevy pickup belonging to a 62-year-old man who was on his way to work. The woman suffered minor injuries, but the man died.
The woman’s attorney stated that the accident may be related to the woman’s medical conditions, which include high blood pressure and diabetes. Drugs and alcohol, they say, were not an issue.
When someone causes a fatal wreck, for whatever reason, it’s always possible that they’ll eventually face criminal charges. However, the victim’s survivors need to know that criminal charges have nothing to do with their right to file a civil claim.
While a victim’s survivors may not immediately think about suing a reckless driver for wrongful death, they may eventually want to take that step for more than one reason. For one thing, a civil action can help them pay for their loved one’s funeral, cover any final medical bills and help provide financial stability for the family. Second, it’s another way to drive home the idea that everyone is accountable for their actions — especially when those actions end up hurting others.