Car Accident Death in Virginia Beach Highlights Risk of Drunk Driving

Parents heading from Pungo to their daughters home in Virginia Beach, Virginia (VA) probably never thought their lives would end this way. They still had big plans for their future - their granddaughter turning 21, a college graduation to attend, and a trip abroad to Italy. Tragically, these parents will never get to experience these momentous occasions. They were hit and killed by a drunk driver.

The at-fault driver was traveling at least 77 miles per hour and his blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) was between 0.13 and 0.16, which is near twice the legal limit of 0.08, according to The Virginian-Pilot. To be clear, the at-fault driver doesn't appear to be a bad person. However, they were recklessly irresponsible and should have known how dangerous it was to drink and drive.

The police charged the at-fault driver with involuntary manslaughter and he was recently sentenced to 41 years in prison, 15 of which must be served.

This tragic DUI accident highlights the ramifications of drinking and driving. Far too many people still go out, have a few too many adult beverages, and take the gamble by driving while drunk. Some people think they aren't really drunk, just "buzzed." In either case, you should not drive if you've consumed a large quantity of alcohol. Getting charged with a DWI is not dependent on how you felt, it depends on if your BAC is above 0.08 or not.

Don't end up ruining your life like the at-fault driver in this accident and certainly don't be responsible for taking the life of innocent drivers. Be responsible and don't drink and drive.