Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs causes a number of accidents every year. Drunk driving accidents can have catastrophic results, including fatalities and serious injuries. One recent accident took place in Virginia, when Donovan James Webster, a world-renowned journalist and author, allegedly was driving under the influence.
Webster, who has written for National Geographic and other magazines, was involved in an accident in Afton. The crash involved two vehicles, one of which was driven by Webster, and a tractor-trailer. Details of the accident were not immediately available, but police have confirmed that one man involved was killed. Webster has been charged with driving under the influence and could be facing additional charges as a result of the accident. Reports indicate that his hearing is scheduled for October.
If a driver is convicted of a DUI, he may face life-changing consequences. In order for the driver to get convicted, the state may have to show that the person was in physical control of the vehicle they were “driving” and also show that the person was under the influence of alcohol.
During a traffic stop police officers will look at the driver’s physical appearance and behavior to help determine if the driver is intoxicated. The officer may then administer a blood, urine or breathalyzer test to determine the driver’s BAC level. Drivers charged with DUIs may be able to defend against the charges if they can show that the officer did not properly administer the BAC test. If the test is not properly administered, results are less likely to be accurate, and the charges may be dropped.
Source: The Grand Island Independent, “Author charged with DUI in fatal crash in Virginia,” Aug. 18, 2014
Source: The Grand Island Independent, “Author charged with DUI in fatal crash in Virginia,” Aug. 18, 2014