Two people were killed in an accident involving two vehicles near Elmwood on Sept. 21. Police continue to investigate the accident but have reported that both speeding and alcohol were factors in the fatal incident.
According to the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, the accident took place at about 7:30 p.m. on U.S. Highway 34 southeast of Elmwood. A westbound vehicle driven by a 25-year-old Quincy man crashed into the rear of a vehicle driven by a 23-year-old Weeping Water man.
The Weeping Water man and his 22-year-old passenger, a woman from Lincoln, did not survive the crash and were declared dead at the scene. The other driver was injured and transported to a Lincoln medical facility for treatment. Car accidents such as ones that involve speeding and alcohol can often turn fatal. Police have not yet indicated which driver they believe to be responsible for the accident.
Regardless of which driver is potentially charged with criminal violations, the deceased Lincoln woman is still considered a victim. Her family may decide to pursue a wrongful death claim after finding evidence to determine a liable and negligent party.
To show negligence, any results from blood tests and information from the police investigation might be used. In Nebraska, a successful claim of this type might result in an award for economic damages that might include the medical costs if a victim spent time in the hospital for their injuries, the funeral and burial costs incurred by the family and the loss of financial support and services experienced by the family members due the victim’s death.
Source: 1011 HD, “Two Dead in Crash Near Elmwood”, September 22, 2014
