Massachusetts accident leaves teen in coma

Authorities reported that a 19-year-old Attleboro man sustained serious injuries and is now in a medically induced coma following a major accident on I-495 on Oct. 11. The man was a passenger in the vehicle, which was driven by a 19-year-old woman. Along with the man, his twin brother suffered a sprained ankle, and a fourth individual suffered minor injuries.

The accident occurred at 1:34 a.m. when the female driver allegedly veered off the interstate just shy of Exit 10. After leaving the interstate, the woman reportedly lost control of her car and struck a tree. The car, a 2000 Toyota Camry, split in half in the collision.

The 19-year-old man’s spleen and half of his liver had to be removed following the accident, and he also suffered a collapsed lung. He was rushed to the hospital via ambulance following the collision. The unnamed driver reportedly suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The police are still investigating the cause of the crash. There was no word on whether charges will be filed against the driver.

When a person causes catastrophic injuries of another by reckless or negligent driving, they may be criminally prosecuted in some circumstances. Additionally, even if criminal charges are not filed, a person who causes harm to another person in this manner can face civil liability. When there are multiple victims, the liability can extend to each injured person. Victims may be able to recover damages including medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, counseling expenses and in some cases, punitive damages depending on the circumstances of the case. Victims or their families may wish to consult with a personal injury attorney for an assessment of available claims and recoverable damages.

Source: The Sun Chronicle, “Attleboro teen in critical condition after I-495 crash“, Emily O’Donnell, October 13, 2014