The death of a child is a tragedy beyond words. To lose a child in an accident is a devastation from which many families do not recover. However, to be the one held responsible for the accident that resulted in the child’s death may be just as unbearable. One woman is facing drunk driving charges along with the knowledge that the Nebraska accident that occurred while she was behind the wheel resulted in the death of a 6-year-old girl.
The Nebraska State Patrol and the Dawes County Sheriff’s Office are continuing their investigation into the events that took place on a recent Saturday. A van carrying six people crashed after the driver allegedly lost control of the vehicle. The van left the roadway and rolled, injuring the three adults and three children inside. Two of the children suffered injuries serious enough to require life-flight transportation. The day after the accident, the 6-year-old girl died as a result of her injuries.
The 32-year-old driver was arrested Sunday and charged with numerous offenses, including DUI, having an open container in the vehicle and motor vehicle homicide. Police also charged her with child abuse and neglect and failing to properly restrain a child. Therefore, it is possible the child’s injuries were compounded because she was not wearing a safety belt.
If convicted of drunk driving and other charges, the woman faces harsh penalties that may include prison. Those with similar charges have found it advantageous to enlist the assistance of an experienced attorney. Having such an advocate may provide a strong defense that will likely begin by questioning the evidence that prosecutors intend to offer in court in support of the formal accusations.
Source: knopnews2.com, “Child killed in crash”, Sept. 13, 2017