While some crashes cannot be avoided, injuries sustained after a drunk driving car accident are completely preventable. Getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol is still a significant problem in Louisiana and around the rest of the nation. Those who choose to drive under the influence are more likely to cause a fatal car accident and land in serious legal trouble.

A recent drunk driving accident has taken the life of a 2-year-old child. The driver deemed responsible was traveling north when he attempted to make a left-hand turn onto another road. His Tahoe struck another vehicle carrying the toddler. The child sustained traumatic injuries and died the next day in a local hospital.

The driver of that vehicle also suffered injuries, although their extent is unknown. The Tahoe driver has since surrendered and is now facing several criminal charges in connection with the crash, including OWI, driving with a suspended license and for failing to yield. He is also facing charges related to the injuries that the other driver received.

When drunk driving is the cause of a deadly Louisiana car accident, the driver believed to be responsible can face a multitude of legal issues. Criminal charges are a likely possibility, but families may also have the right to seek a civil claim. Oftentimes, a criminal conviction is not enough for the people who have lost so much. When this is the case, they can examine their legal options and see what the best course of action is in order to send a strong message to both the responsible party and other drivers that negligent actions can result in harsh consequences.

Source: The Advocate, "OWI suspect booked in fatal crash," Jan. 24, 2013