Driving under the influence (DUI) is a crime which affects many different people, especially when a vehicular homicide is involved. This is one of the main reasons DUI cases can be more complicated than one might assume: There are so many levels to consider that it takes deep knowledge of the law to understand how make sure justice is served for all sides. An example of a complex DUI event is the recent DUI charge against a South Carolina driver.
The young man, 21, and his passenger were driving in his Saturn when he veered over the center line and struck two motorcyclists. The motorcyclists, ages 43 and 50, were hit head-on and suffered fatal injuries. The man and his passenger were not seriously hurt. The accident was deemed to be the result of the driver’s intoxication, although reports do not indicate how the police knew the driver was DUI.
The man is a college student who works at two jobs to help pay his tuition. He is, therefore, tied to the area and shows the ability to act responsibly, two factors that will no doubt be taken into consideration as the case proceeds. However, it should be noted that he has had run-ins with authorities before for possession of an illegal substance (marijuana), among other misdemeanor offenses. His bond has been set at a total of $31,270.
Like this South Carolina example shows, every DUI case has its own nuances. Each party that is involved must confront the accusations against them while seeking to protect their considerable legal rights. This individual will have the right to challenge evidence offered against him in court while fighting to achieve a favorable outcome.
Source: The Times and Democrat, College student charged with felony DUI after two motorcyclists killed in crash, Gene Zaleski, Sept. 4, 2013
