In the aftermath of a personal injury accident, such as a car accident, there are many different steps that should be taken. The health and well-being of the victims must be attended to, first and foremost. But after receiving appropriate medical care, to whom should a victim turn in order to seek financial relief for their injuries? The simple answer is a personal injury attorney. But not just any attorney! At the Law Offices of Gilbert R. Hoy, Jr. and Affiliates, we know what it takes to get our injured clients full and fair compensation. For more than 25 years, we have helped people injured or killed by drunk drivers get the justice that they truly deserve. Call us now at 617-787-3700 to set up a no-cost, private legal consultation.
Drunk driving is a serious offense under every state’s criminal laws. But there is another aspect to drunk driving accidents that many people forget about. In civil courts, the victims of drunk driving accidents can seek financial relief and recover money damages from the parties responsible for the accident. Potential defendants can consist of any number of persons or entities, including the drivers themselves or the establishments responsible for overserving the alcohol. Generally, driving drunk is considered to amount to negligence, as well, because it places innocent people, drivers and pedestrians alike, at serious risk of injury or death.
On July 17, 2011, a Buddhist monk in central Virginia was killed in a car accident caused by a drunk driver. 43-year-old Phra Chom Taengsap was serving as a monk at the Lao Buddhavong Temple in Catlett, Virginia. That night, at around 10:17 pm, one Miguel Angel Velazquez-Vite was driving a 2000 Isuzu Trooper SUV, and crossed over the yellow lines of Route 28. He slammed head-on into the southbound Lincoln Town Car being driven by Mr. Taengsap. Mr. Taengsap was seriously injured in the accident, and was flown to the nearby Fauquier Hospital. 50 hours after the auto accident, he succumbed to his wounds and died.
First responders arrived on the scene, and found Mr. Velasquez-Vite sitting in his car. He was found to be under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident. He suffered only minor injuries. Months later, Mr. Velasquez-Vite was convicted of manslaughter and was sentenced to eight years in prison.
Just recently, the estate of Mr. Taengsap settled his injury case with the Cincinnati Insurance Company for $625,000. The money will be used to support Mr. Taengsap’s family, which currently resides in Thailand. Warrenton attorney Paul Morrison brought the wrongful death lawsuit in the Fauquier County Circuit Court.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in an accident with a drunk driver, you may be entitled to significant pecuniary damages. Email info@gilhoylaw.com for more information or call us at 617-787-3700. Our injury lawyers are ready to speak with you, 24/7, about your potential claim. Your needs are our top priority!
