Hawaii News reports that a Waimea driver has been arrested following a fatal DUI accident that killed a woman and inflicted serious personal injuries on three girls. According to reports, the man passed another vehicle while driving down the Queen Kaahumanu Highway, striking an on-coming car. The head-on collision killed the driver and sent three children to the hospital. The man reportedly had a previous DUI conviction.
Prosecution of drunk driving accidents can occur in both civil and criminal courts. Those suspected of drunk driving may face fines, penalties, license suspensions and potential jail time in the criminal justice system. Similarly, injured parties and their families may bring a wrongful death/personal injury claim against a suspected drunk driver in civil court. If successful, the driver may be held responsible and be required to pay damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and emotional distress. Both civil and criminal actions may be pursued at the same time.
This traffic fatality is the 18th official Big Island death this year, as compared to 27 at this time last year.
Any time a serious injury accident occurs, it is important to contact an experienced Hawaii personal injury lawyer at once. A skilled Hawaii attorney can begin an investigation into the incident and determine the best avenue of recovery for those injured, and their families.
For more information, or if you or a loved one has suffered harm in any type of Hawaii accident, please contact the compassionate and dedicated Hawaii personal injury lawyers at Bostwick & Peterson, LLP for an immediate consultation.
