Last week we wrote about a North Carolina woman who was facing murder charges related to a fatal car vs. motorcycle accident. The woman has now been convicted after being accused of driving the car that killed a father and son last year. The fatal accident happened in October 2011 when the father and son were riding together on a motorcycle.
The driver pleaded guilty last week to charges of felony second degree murder, two counts of death by motor vehicle and DWI. She will serve at least 28 years in prison, according to a news report.
A statement that was issued in the case called the fatal accident a ‘senseless tragedy.’ The men’s community, family and friends are still mourning the loss of the victims and hope that the woman’s conviction sends a harsh message to others who may consider drunk driving.
The fatal accident was investigated by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the State Bureau of Investigation Crime Laboratory, and the Burke County Sheriff’s Office. They and concerned citizens helped earn a conviction against the woman guilty of this tragic crime.
Drunk driving accidents are one of the most easily preventable because they involve a choice made by the driver.
Unfortunately, this woman made the wrong choice, and a father and son lost their lives in a fatal accident. Although the woman will serve a lengthy prison term, it is still possible for the family of the victims to seek additional justice. If they decide to seek civil compensation, a successful claim could send another message to drunk driving offenders in the state of North Carolina, as well as provide the family with compensation for funeral expenses and lost source of income.
Source: Fox Charlotte, “Hickory Woman Pleads Guilty to Fatal Hit and Run,” Nov. 19, 2012
