Driving on unfamiliar roads can be unnerving for out-of-state motorists. An unexpected turn or change of traffic pattern can lead to a last minute reaction by a vehicle's driver. Such a reaction can also lead to car accidents.
Two vehicles were involved in a recent accident on I-65 in Barren County, Kentucky. A Honda Odyssey Van, driven by a resident of Jackson, Mississippi, was traveling north on I-65 when the driver suddenly tried to change lanes. The van collided with the rear of a Honda Accord, resulting in a car accident. The Honda Accord was also being driven north by a resident of Tennessee. The driver of the Honda Odyssey Van lost control and collided with a concrete barrier. The force of the collision caused the van to overturn onto its top in the middle of the road.
The accident investigation team found that the driver of the Honda Odyssey Van was drunk at the time of the accident and that the van was stolen in Sandusky, Ohio. Investigators also learned that the van's driver is a wanted criminal for parole violation in Mississippi.
The van's driver was arrested, taken to the hospital for treatment of injuries and then released from the hospital to Barren County Jail. He is being charged with driving with a suspended license, DUI 2nd aggravated circumstances, possession of an open alcoholic beverage container in the car, receipt of stolen property worth $10,000 or more and being a fugitive from another state. The criminal charges will not prevent the injured motorist from seeking awards in a personal injury claim.
The driver of the Honda Accord, who is 58 years of age and a resident of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, was not injured in the accident.
The stolen Honda Odyssey Van was seized at the scene by the police.
When driving out-of-state, it is important to slow down and be prepared for changes in the roadway. This ability to notice traffic changes can be further hindered if a driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Driving under the influence of alcohol is a criminal offense but also may be a deciding factor in a negligence claim in a personal injury case. A person who is injured in a car action due to the careless actions of others may be entitled to compensation. This compensation may include pain and suffering as well as compensation for injury and lost wage benefits. A person may be found negligent with or without alcohol as a factor.
Source: wcluradio.com, "Car collision on I-65 leads to arrest of a Mississippi fugitive," Nov. 04, 2012