VA Accident Leads to DUI Officer Arrest | Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp

An off-duty Virginia police officer ran into another motorist and was arrested for DUI and failing a field sobriety test.

The motorist was driving a Toyota Tundra when he was hit by a 2005 Subaru Impreza, driven by the 40 year-old officer. The at-fault driver’s BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) was found to be .2%: more than twice the legal limit in Virginia (VA). According to VA state police, the off-duty officer failed to yield to the right of way, resulting in damage to victim’s vehicle, as well as injuries to other driver. The accident occurred along VA’s Eastern Shore; the victim was from Norge, VA.

The officer formerly worked for the Onley Police Department, but resigned his position after the accident.

Being struck by a drunk driver can be a frightening experience, and especially if you are hurt from the collision. How disappointing that a police officer, someone the public looks up to for protection, became the wrongdoer in this case.

In addition to the oft-repeated lesson of not drinking and driving, yielding to the right of way is another important takeaway here. Whenever you are at a stop sign, or attempting to merge with traffic, make sure there is plenty of time and space for you to do so. If you are ever in doubt, let the other person have the right of way to avoid an accident. Intoxicated drivers have a harder time obeying these basic rules of the road, as their judgment is impaired.

If you would like us to evaluate your car accident claim, please contact our firm as soon as possible. Insurance companies must pay more money in DUI cases as the law in Virginia allows punitive damages when the person who caused to wreck has a BAC of .15 or higher.

IW