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Motor vehicle accidents: Teen killed on Blue Ridge Parkway

On Behalf of | Sep 6, 2018 | motor vehicle accidents

The Blue Ridge Parkway is often a peaceful area for North Carolina drivers to enjoy a slower pace and scenic view. Sadly, an out-of-state teen lost her life when the vehicle she was in crashed somewhere along this stretch of road. Authorities say that the driver of the vehicle may have been speeding, which is a common factor in many motor vehicle accidents. 

The speed limit is 45 mph throughout most of the Blue Ridge Parkway, although in some places it drops to as low as 25 mph. Although it is not clear how fast the 21-year-old driver was going at the time of the wreck, police believe that he was speeding as he attempted to pass four other vehicles in one go. Unfortunately, he lost control of the vehicle as he rounded a curve and drove off an embankment. 

The car fell about 200 feet below the embankment, and the 16-year-old passenger was thrown from the vehicle and pinned beneath it. She died at the scene of the accident. It is not clear if the driver was injured, but police are currently investigating the wreck and say that criminal charges are a possibility. 

Fatal motor vehicle accidents are typically both emotionally and financially traumatizing events for surviving family members. There are often unexpected funeral expenses, medical bills from attempted life-saving attempts, lost time from work and more. While a wrongful death claim cannot bring back a loved one, any resulting compensation from a successful lawsuit can help North Carolina families move forward with the grieving process.