Driving a vehicle comes with the duty to drive safely and obey the rules of the road. That’s why there is an age requirement for getting a driver’s license. Most people would not expect a younger teen to have the skills required to drive safely on Texas roadways. When unlicensed drivers get behind the wheel, especially those who are too young to have a valid license, the results can be tragic.
How the accident happened
On a weekday evening, just outside Andrews, a pickup truck was traveling on a two-lane highway. A van carrying a golf team from a nearby university was traveling in the opposite lane toward the pickup. For unknown reasons, the pickup veered into the lane in front of the van, causing the two vehicles to collide head-on. Investigators at the scene believe speed was a factor. The pickup also had a spare tire on the front which may have contributed to the accident.
Upon further investigation, authorities realized that the driver of the pickup was a 13-year-old boy. He and the passenger of the pickup died at the scene. The coach and six players on the university golf team also perished in the collision. Two victims were taken to a local hospital with serious injuries. Authorities are unsure why the 13-year-old was driving, and due to the circumstances of the accident, they may never find answers.
Seeking legal recourse for motor vehicle accidents
The unexpected death of a loved one in a motor vehicle accident can be very traumatic for surviving family members. Not only are they trying to heal from emotional pain, but these types of accidents can leave a family with a significant financial burden. While a monetary settlement won’t bring back a loved one, those funds can help the family pay for expenses. Those in this type of situation can speak with an experienced Texas personal injury attorney to better understand how to proceed with a wrongful death lawsuit.