Motorists on Michigan’s highways, especially its network of Interstate highways, are familiar with signs warning of construction work and promising double fines for any violations. A woman from Belleville recently ran afoul of this warning and the increased penalties by hitting and killing two construction workers near Ypsilanti Township. She has additional exposure to criminal penalties because she has been accused of driving under the influence of alcohol.
The accident
The female suspect was driving east on I-94 near Harris Road when she struck two construction workers. Both the workers were in the marked construction zone when they were struck by the defendant’s car. They were pronounced dead at the scene of the mishap. State patrol officers said the accident occurred at about 1:40 a.m. on Nov. 7. The victims, who were both from Lansing, were both 23 years old.
The 29-year-old driver was arrested at the scene and taken to the Washtenaw County Jail. She has been charged with two felony counts of driving while intoxicated and causing a fatal accident. If convicted, she faces imprisonment for not more than 15 years for each charge or a fine ranging from $2,500 to $10,000, or both.
Now what?
Anyone facing similar charges and penalties faces similarly harsh penalties if convicted. A defendant in such a case may wish to consult an experienced criminal defense attorney for an evaluation of the prosecution’s evidence and potential legal defenses. A knowledgeable lawyer can also provide assistance in negotiating a plea agreement with the prosecutor.
