Three Injured in Car Accident on US 83 in Ochiltree County, TX
Ochiltree County, TX -- May 14, 2022, three people were injured due to an accident where two vehicles crashed along US 83.
Authorities reported that the incident happened just after midnight along US 83 near mile marker 10.
According to officials, a 19-year-old Guymon, Oklahoma woman was in a Chevy Cobalt traveling northbound on the highway. It appears the vehicle drifted into oncoming lanes where it crashed into a southbound Dodge Challenger.
Due to the crash, the Oklahoma woman had incapacitating injuries while the passenger and driver of the other vehicle had non-incapacitating and possible injuries, respectively. Police said alcohol could be a factor in the crash. No further information is available.
Commentary on Car Accident on US 83 in Ochiltree County
If it's true that alcohol contributed to this crash, it may be worth understanding what that can mean for those involved. That can get confusing when people from out of state are involved, but the laws in Oklahoma and Texas are relatively similar in regards to alcohol. They both have dram shop law which can, in certain circumstances, allow victims and families to hold bars and other establishments accountable for their role in a crash. Let's consider how that might work here in Texas.
Essentially, dram shop law says that an alcohol provider who over-serves an obviously intoxicated person can be liable for damages resulting from that intoxication (Oklahoma's law requires that the person be noticeably intoxicated). If a business does so, dram shop gives victims and families tools to ensure all parties are held responsible and to get some much needed help for their injuries.
Just to be clear, it's possible alcohol wasn't even a factor here. These preliminary reports can often overlook crucial details. Either way, ensuring there are thorough investigations will no doubt be crucial for those involved.
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