State officials in Maryland set and enforce speed limits in an attempt to avoid catastrophic auto collisions. When people disregard these limits and drive at excessive speeds, they run the risk of causing a tragic accident involving serious injuries and even fatalities.
Sadly, this is what occurred when a family of four was on their way to watch a musical set at the children’s school. Before they were able to reach their destination, their vehicle was hit by a car traveling at speeds in excess of 90 mph in the opposite direction. The 21-year-old driver of the speeding car hit the passenger side door. The collision killed three of the vehicles’ occupants, a mother, father and 18-year-old boy. The 15-year-old girl who was also in the vehicle survived the accident with serious injuries.
After a thorough evaluation of the young man’s prior driving record, the judge reprimanded him for four instances of reckless driving, involving speeding and negligence in the past. The judge found the defendant guilty of three counts of vehicular manslaughter and sentenced him to 12 years in prison. In addition to time behind bars, the man must serve 150 hours of community service and five years of probation. The young man showed extreme remorse for causing the deaths of three innocent people, and will be eligible for parole once he has completed at least 25 percent of his sentence.
When drivers make poor decisions on the road, they must face the consequences of their actions. People who have been victimized by reckless drivers, may wish to speak to a personal injury attorney regarding their options when it comes to compensation.
