Police suspect drunk driving was behind a fatal two-car accident in Hampton Saturday. Around 10:30 p.m. Saturday night, Hampton Police were alerted to a serious accident at the intersection of Magruder Boulevard and Hampton Roads Center Parkway.
They arrived at the scene shortly thereafter, but medics were unable to save the victim, George Edward Neselrod, Jr., and he was pronounced dead at the scene. He was 53 years old.
Hampton Police Sergeant Jason Price said that Mr. Neselrod was traveling southbound on Magruder Boulevard at the time of the accident. A 49-year-old man in a Ford Explorer was attempting to turn left from northbound Magruder Boulevard onto Hampton Roads Center Parkway and crashed into Mr. Neselrod’s Ford Escort.
The man driving the Ford Explorer was reportedly intoxicated and was taken into custody. He has been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol third or subsequent offense and is currently at the Hampton City Jail. Police say more charges may be filed.
I extend my deepest condolences to Mr. Neselrod’s family and friends. To lose a loved one suddenly in an accident is tragic, and learning that a drunk driver may be to blame makes the death even more senseless.
There is no excuse for drinking and driving, and based on the police report this man has done it before. A third offense DUI is a Class 6 felony in Virginia. If he is found guilty he faces a minimum of six months in jail. I am sure this is little solace for the family of Mr. Neselrod, though. The criminal system can provide justice for society and punishment for violating our social norms, but it just isn’t designed to make a family whole; that’s the purpose of the civil system.
Families who have lost a loved one in an accident caused by a drunk driver may be able to pursue a civil claim through a wrongful death action. A successful claim can compensate a family for burial and funeral expenses, but it can go beyond that in some cases. An award may also include compensation for future wages and lost companionship of which the family has been deprived.
If your loved one was killed in an accident, you probably have many questions about your legal options. I encourage you to read our firm’s answers to frequently asked questions about auto accident injuries and wrongful death actions or contact us to discuss your unique circumstances.
AM