Newly signed Tennessee Titan Delanie Walker lost his aunt and uncle in a drunk driving accident shortly after Super Bowl XLVII. His aunt and uncle had attended a 49ers post-game party with him a few hours before the car accident occurred. The couple had pulled off of Louisiana’s Interstate 10 when their vehicle was struck from behind by another vehicle.
Police said that the vehicle that struck the couple was traveling in excess of 100 mph. Upon the collision, both vehicles ignited in flames, and the couple was found dead inside after the fire was put out. The driver responsible for the car accident had a blood-alcohol level over the legal limit of .08 percent. She has been charged with driving while intoxicated, reckless operation and two counts of vehicular homicide.
Mr. Walker stated that he was close to his aunt, and he wants to take steps to keep their memory alive in a positive way. He recently participated in a fundraising event for Mothers Against Drunk Driving, and he plans to start a foundation to help support the couple’s eight children. The family of a wrongful death victim, such as in this case, could file a lawsuit against the driver responsible for the accident to seek punitive damages.
Those affected by a drunk driving-related car accident may be faced with expenses related to funeral costs, lost wages and medical bills, and a civil lawsuit may be filed against the driver to obtain financial compensation for these expenses. This is an option that may be pursued regardless of the outcome of criminal charges. Those who would like to learn more about this option may contact a personal injury lawyer.
Source: The Tennessean, “Tennessee Titans’ Delanie Walker motivated by tragedy,” Jim Wyatt, March 17, 2013