Losing the life of a teenager is devastating for a family and often for an entire community. Sadly, fatal car accidents involving teenagers happen frequently in Ohio. Union County police are investigating a single-vehicle crash that claimed the life of a 15-year old boy on a recent Friday evening.
The crash report filed by the Ohio Highway Patrol states that the involvement of alcohol and drugs are not suspected. Reportedly, five teenagers were traveling on a northern Union County road when the car veered left and traveled off the road. It rolled multiple times after striking a culvert, ultimately landing on its side. However, none of the boys were strapped into their seat belts, and they were all ejected.
The report indicates that one teenage passenger died at the crash scene while another 15-year-old passenger was airlifted to a hospital for treatment of serious injuries. The 19-year-old driver and another 17-year-old boy were transported to a hospital — also with incapacitating injuries. The fifth teen’s injuries were less severe, and he has since been released from the hospital.
While there is no indication yet of what led to this accident, the surviving family members of the deceased boy, and the parents or guardians of the other teenagers will face unanticipated financial challenges. Whenever passengers are injured or killed in car accidents, there could be grounds for personal injury or wrongful death lawsuits. However, not all such claims are viable, and consulting with an experienced Ohio attorney is typically the most appropriate first step to take. If grounds exist, the lawyer can provide the necessary support and guidance.
Source: marionstar.com, “Elgin student, 15, dies in Friday car crash“, Sarah Volpenhein, March 26, 2018