Countless numbers of people have lost loved ones from accidents in which the drivers were intoxicated while behind the wheel. This leaves the door open to potential civil lawsuits filed on behalf of the estate of the person who died. Although no financial judgment can replace the loss of a loved one, such awards do help families recover from medical bills, funeral arrangements and lost wages that result when a family member dies suddenly. Despite apologizing for his involvement in a drunk-driving accident that killed a pedestrian in Philadelphia, a 54-year-old man failed to gain the forgiveness of the judge.
After his apology for what he termed "my part of this accident," the judge became emotional and scolded him for his reckless behavior. The judge then sentenced him to five to 10 years in prison for convictions of homicide by motor vehicle as well as aggravated assault. The defense attorney argued for the minimum three-to-six-year term due to the defendant's health problems, however the judge disagreed.
