It’s safe to say that now more than ever before we are ready to close out this year and ring in a new one. And while 2021 brings new hope and promises, celebrating on New Year’s Eve or even New Year’s Day can be deadly – especially here in Texas.
According to a study, Texas ranks fifth in the nation for fatal motor crashes this time of year. The only states ranking higher are Wyoming (4), South Carolina (3), Oklahoma (2), and Mississippi (1). Using data between 2013 and 2018, the study also found that in Texas there were around 188 fatal crashes with 62 drunk driving crashes on New Year’s. The most dangerous times for drivers to be on the road is between 1 and 3 a.m.
Last year, for example, in Corpus Christi, 71-year-old Guillermo Serna was hit by a driver going the wrong way on New Year’s Eve. The driver who caused the accident, 28-year-old Richard Lopez died at the scene. But Serna survived the initial crash. He was taken to the hospital in critical care. He survived for some time, but almost three months later, he was pulled off of life support. His wife, son Jason Serna, and Jason’s girlfriend, Michelle DeLeon survived the crash, but were left mourning the loss of their loved one.
It was 5am on New Year’s Day and the family plus Michelle were on the way to the airport to drop Jason off. He was a soldier in the Army reporting for duty. When Richard Lopez struck their vehicle, it rolled and burst into flames. Witnesses were able to pull them from the wreckage but all four of them had to go to the hospital and go through multiple surgeries. It was a long, tragic ordeal for the family.
Police suspect that Lopez was drunk on that fatal New Year’s Eve. But since he died at the scene, he could not be criminally prosecuted. However, the family still has the right to seek justice through the civil courts by suing for compensation.
If you are involved in an accident on New Year’s Eve or any other time, its best to seek the guidance of an attorney. Experienced personal injury lawyers will generally take your case at no upfront cost to you and fight to get you the money you need to cover medical bills, time off from work, and the numerous other expenses that often follow an accident.
DeSouza Law Firm is a leading personal injury firm representing accident victims throughout Texas.
If you’ve been injured by a car, truck, 18-wheeler, company vehicle, or in the oilfield, call DeSouza Injury Lawyers today at 361-799-2222 or visit the firm online at https://jfdlawfirm.com/.