Innocence Was Lost Due to a Drunk Driver

 At Campbell & Associates, we represent victims of all sorts of accidents, most of which were preventable. One example is when a bar, restaurant, or other establishment over-serves a “visibly intoxicated” person.

Thankfully, we have laws in North Carolina which have a sole purpose of addressing alcohol comsumption at residences or businesses. Most proprietors follow the law, but others do not. When liquor and alcohol sellers violate the law, terrible tragedies can happen.

Nearly two years ago, Matt and Meredith Eastridge were traveling in their Toyota RAV4 on Providence Road near Stawberry Hill Drive in south east Charlotte around 12:30 on Oct. 29, 2010.  A Volvo driven by David Canter Huffman, crossed over the centerline and struck the vehicle the Eastridges were in head on.   Huffman was estimated to be going in excess of 90 m.p.h.

North Carolina authorities determined that Huffman had a blood alcohol level of .23 that is nearly three times the legal limit.  In the hours leading up to the crash, Huffman allegedly patronized Eddie’s Place Restaurant and Bar.  According to evidence presented at trial, he was served four draft beers and six double cognacs, the equivalent of 15 drinks, in a little over two hours.

Huffman died at the scene of the crash.  Matt and Meredith were critically injured.  Meredith was 6 months pregnant and tragically lost her unborn child.  The Eastridges spent months in the hospital after the crash.

Thanks to our North Carolina laws and a reasonable Charlotte jury, the couple was awarded a $1.7 million verdict. While Campbell & Associates were not the lawyers who handled this particular case, we are here to help victims that are put in similar situations.

Drivers often get behind the wheel of a car, truck, or SUV after drinking.. While they might think that they are capable of operating a vehicle safely, an impaired or drunk driver is four times more likely to be involved in an accident than a sober driver.  Bars and restaurants, that serve “visibly intoxicated” patrons who later cause a traffic accident, can be held liable with the help of lawyers who are experienced in this type of litigation.  At Campbell & Associates, we can help you if you or a loved one has been the victim of a drunk or impaired driver.

If you have been injured by a negligent person please call Campbell & Associates today at 704-333-0885.