In Macon and beyond, we represent people who have been injured in all types of accidents

Losing a 17-year-old child is devastating. Discovering that the death was caused by a drunk driver only exacerbates the heartache. The lives of teenagers in Georgia and other states are lost in preventable car accidents. Sadly, these senseless deaths will continue to occur, especially with approaching holidays that often include parties where alcohol is served.

Such a tragedy claimed the life of a 17-year-old student of a Georgia high school. According to the Georgia State Patrol, the accident occurred on a recent Thursday morning shortly before 8 a.m. Reportedly the student was driving a pickup truck, along with two 15-year-old passengers — his brother and a cousin.

A preliminary crash report indicates that an oncoming SUV crossed over into their traffic lane. A head-on collision followed, and all the occupants of both vehicles were transported to medical facilities for treatment of injuries of varying severity. Sadly, the young driver of the pickup truck did not survive. The SUV driver was arrested on charges of drunk driving and first-degree homicide by vehicle, along with several traffic violations.

Regardless of the outcome of the criminal case against the woman who drove the SUV, the surviving family members of the deceased student appear to have grounds to pursue a claim for financial relief. A personal injury attorney in Georgia with experience in dealing with wrongful death claims resulting from fatal car accidents can be an invaluable ally during such difficult times. Successful recovery of damages does not depend on the outcome of the criminal case, but a conviction might benefit the plaintiffs in a civil lawsuit.