A drunk driver crashed into a family traveling on Christmas Eve. The car crash occurred in Newport News, Virginia at around 11:45 p.m. According to the Virginia State Police, 50-year-old Michael A. Smith was traveling with his wife and three children on Interstate 664 when their vehicle was struck by a drunk driver. The Smith family was traveling in a 2011 Honda Pilot when 32-year-old Roger L. Yates was operating the 2006 Dodge Charger that collided with their vehicle. The impact ejected the Smith’s 20-year-old son, and Michael A. Smith was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. Smith’s wife and three children were transported to the hospital where Michael’s wife, 44-year-old Sharolyn T. Smith and the couple's 18-year-old son were treated and released. Their 20-year-old son remains in critical condition and their 14-year-old daughter is receiving treatment for severe injuries to her foot. Yates was uninjured in the accident, arrested and received several DUI charges.
Have you lost a loved one in a DUI accident? Tragically, it is likely that you or someone you know has lost a loved one due to the careless actions of a drunk driver. According to Mother’s Against Drunk Driving, on average, each day 28 individuals lose their lives in a drunk driving crash. While those drivers will face consequences of disregarding traffic laws, they should also be held financially responsible through a DUI accident case.
Contacting the experienced DUI accident attorneys at Meyerkord & Kurth is necessary to obtain the justice you deserve. Our attorneys have recovered over $350 million in compensation for our clients and will take all steps to recover the maximum compensation for your medical bills, loss of economic support, funeral costs, and emotional damages. We will support you through this devastating time while successfully handling your case. Contact us today for a free no-obligation consultation.