A Connecticut vehicle crash that resulted in the death of a woman, 19, has led to a man’s being criminally charged with driving under the influence as well as other crimes. The auto accident happened in late 2014 when the man, 23, was reportedly driving while impaired. The woman, who was his girlfriend at the time, was a passenger in the vehicle he was operating.

At a little past 2:15 a.m., the man was going south along Route 9 before losing control of his automobile. The vehicle spun around and hit a post and light pole. The vehicle also struck a rock ledge and became airborne. Police said the car then flipped multiple times, and the female passenger was ejected.

An arrest warrant was obtained for the man, and he was charged on a recent Friday. His charges include operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, not driving in an established lane, second-degree assault and second-degree manslaughter. The man posted a bond of $50,000 and was released.

The loved ones of the woman may decide to file a wrongful death claim against the man, seeking damages. If awarded, damages may help to cover losses tied to the fatal accident, such as funeral costs and the loss of consortium, and even help to address pain and suffering caused by the crash. If the man ends up being convicted of his charges, evidence of the conviction may be furnished in a related civil court proceeding to try to establish liability in the tragic Connecticut auto accident.

Source: Berlin, CT, Patch, “Berlin Man Faces Manslaughter Charge in Fatal Crash Case“, Barbara Heins, Aug. 24, 2015