Authorities in Boone County have arrested 23-year-old Justin Lee on suspicion of driving under the influence, following an incident where his vehicle veered off the road and resulted in the tragic death of a 16-year-old girl.
On the evening of August 3, deputies and the fire district responded to an accident on Poplar Grove Road. According to reports, Lee’s Ford F-350 overturned multiple times before coming to rest.
The young victim, Jazyln Davidson, a student at Harlem High School, was ejected from the vehicle and rushed to a nearby hospital with serious injuries.
Sadly, she passed away as a result of these injuries.
Lee is facing charges of aggravated DUI of alcohol causing great bodily harm and DUI over .08. He remains in custody at the Boone County Jail.
To support Davidson’s family with funeral expenses, a fundraiser has been initiated.
DUI ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION
Despite crackdowns throughout this country, impaired drivers remain a threat to innocent, law-abiding victims.
The consumption of alcohol can diminish the ability to operate a motor vehicle. According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, each year about 300,000 people are injured in the U.S. by drunken drivers.
An independent investigation will be required to learn other potential factors in the case such as blood alcohol content levels.
Candice Bond, an experienced DUI accident attorney, was interviewed and provided her thoughts on incidents such as this.
“Separate from criminal charges, a victim may be entitled to compensation through a civil lawsuit against the responsible party, said Candice Bond, Managing Partner of Bond Legal. “In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash, and obtain phone and text records of the liable party. Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help compassionately guide an injured victim during this difficult time, protecting their legal rights, while ensuring that a driver who takes the wheel under the influence is held accountable for their actions.”
WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM
Pending the investigation, the family of Jazyln Davidson may pursue a wrongful death claim. Family members of wrongful death victims may seek damages for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident such as this.
“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal.
“We understand just what families must go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.”
