Most people understand the general safety precautions one should take before and during the operation of any motor vehicle. In particular, virtually everyone has heard frequent warnings about the potential for motor vehicle accidents caused by drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Unfortunately, some drivers continue to ignore the warnings and get behind the wheel after imbibing. Often, this type of irresponsible behavior ends badly, with one or more people seriously injured or killed. Such was the case in a 2018 crash that ended with a fatality and the West Virginia man responsible serving prison time for several DUI-related charges.
Head-on motor vehicle accidents often end in tragedy
Most West Virginia residents know that many factors may lead to a driver traveling in the opposite lane of traffic: reckless behavior, distractions, road obstacles, etc. Even a driver experiencing an unexpected medical crisis can cause him or her to suddenly be facing oncoming vehicles. Whether the driver is at fault or not, tragic motor vehicle accidents very often result from such circumstances. This is certainly what happened in a recent incident in which two people were killed.
Motor vehicle accidents: 2 dead following crash in West Virginia
The Berkeley County Sheriff's Office has officially confirmed the deaths of two women in a tragic single-vehicle accident in Martinsburg the morning of Dec. 25. The accident reportedly happened on Interstate 81 in West Virginia. The families of both deceased parties have been notified, but their identities are still being withheld pending the autopsy report. As with many motor vehicle accidents, it may be some time before authorities determine its cause.
When should a family pursue a wrongful death claim?
The loss of a loved one can be devastating, and it can leave a West Virginia family with unexpected expenses and financial losses. If the death of a family member was the result of the reckless or negligent actions of another party, it is possible those left behind could have grounds to pursue compensation through a wrongful death claim. There are certain circumstances that could justify this course of action, allowing family to secure damages and move forward.
