I am disturbed by the story of a recent arrest of a California teen. As a Chicago auto injury attorney, I am all too familiar with the deadly combination of teens, alcohol and reckless driving.
18 year old Ryan Armstrong was driving under the influence when he crashed his car, killing his passenger. According to Officer Robert Lehman of the California Highway Patrol, the Carmel Valley resident was arrested on charges of felony DUI and vehicular manslaughter.
Armstrong's vehicle drifted off of the edge of Tasajara Road, and rolled several times. His passenger, Keenan Lucero, 19, of Carmel, was not wearing a seat belt and was thrown from the vehicle as it flipped. Lucero died at the scene.
Lucero was a well-liked student-athlete at Carmel High School and went on to Chico State University.
Two other passengers suffer minor to major injuries.
This tragedy might serve as a reminder to all about auto safety. I strongly urge my clients to always wear seat belts when traveling in a vehicle and to be cautious and alert — not only as a driver, but also as a passenger. The family of Keenan Lucero and other victims of careless drivers have the right to seek justice for their losses, pain, and suffering.
