A Georgia pastor has been killed after a nighttime head-on collision with a drunk driver. The pastor’s wife was seriously injured, as well.
On the night of March 30, a Rome pastor was leaving his congregation after a celebration of his 23 years of service. The couple were traveling down Highway 140 in Adairsville. At the same time, a 47-year-old Adairsville woman was traveling in a pickup truck in the opposite direction. The woman crossed over the center line and collided with the pastor’s vehicle head-on, according to the Georgia State Patrol.
The pastor was killed in the crash. His wife was taken by emergency personnel to Erlanger Hospital in Chattanooga, where she has had two operations for the serious injuries she suffered in the auto accident. Reports indicate that her injuries are not life threatening, however. As of the next day, she had not been informed of her husband’s death. The driver of the pickup was also injured in the crash and hospitalized. She has been charged with drunk driving and vehicular homicide in the first degree. Church members remember their pastor’s legacy, and are thankful that his last moments were spent in celebration.
A death or injury due to the gross negligence or recklessness of another driver can bring with it a civil claim for wrongful death. The family of the person who was killed or injured in an auto accident could have a claim for any medical expenses, pain and suffering and even funeral bills in certain cases. This is in addition to and regardless of any criminal charges filed against the driver. An attorney may be able to help bring such a claim after examining the evidence and determining the responsible party.
Source: WSB, “Woman charged with DUI in crash that killed local pastor”, March 31, 2014