When Can Somebody be Criminally Charged for Causing an Accident
My question involves an injury that occurred in the state of: Georgia.
Close relatives of mine were recently involved in an accident on a Georgia interstate. Another vehicle changed lanes into them causing a very serious accident. Numerous witnesses to the accident reported that the other vehicle was clearly at fault. The other driver was charged (either at the scene or shortly thereafter) with an illegal lane change. Both of my relatives were transported to the hospital. One of the relatives passed away (after over a month in ICU) as a direct result of injuries sustained in the crash.
My understanding is that the person who caused the accident has minimal insurance and few personal assets. Of greater concern is we have learned that this person has had multiple accidents this year where they were at fault.
Although the person has been charged with only an improper lane change at this point, would this situation potentially permit them to be charged with something more substantial? (vehicular manslaughter, or similar?) How would one go about having the charges adjusted?
Re: Accident Liability Due to Improper Lane Change
Discuss the situation with the prosecutor handling the case.
Re: Accident Liability Due to Improper Lane Change
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tonyp
Although the person has been charged with only an improper lane change at this point, would this situation potentially permit them to be charged with something more substantial? (vehicular manslaughter, or similar?) How would one go about having the charges adjusted?
Yes, it is possible but it is beyond you to go about having the charges adjusted. It would be up to the prosecuting attorney to file charges. About the only thing you can do is contact the PA (or also referred to as a DA (district attorney)) and speak with them about it. In the end, it is up to the PA to make the call though.