WOODS CROSS, UT– A single-vehicle rollover crash sent two individuals to the hospital in Woods Cross, Utah on Monday, July 7th, 2014, according to the news report from The Davis Clipper.
Investigators have said that they have reason to believe Tyler Cotter was hurt when the car he was in lost control for reasons currently under investigation while driving on the 500 South frontage road just before 12:30 Monday morning. The vehicle rolled several times after leaving the pavement.
Scene of the Accident
Tyler Cotter was taken by EMS to nearby Intermountain Medical Center where he remained in stable condition. Another occupant of the vehicle was identified as 22-year-old Paula Flores, who was also rushed to IMC where she was last listed in critical condition by a hospital spokesperson.
The police currently believe alcohol may have played a role in the accident, and are currently investigating further to confirm.
Utah State Police are handling the investigation with local authorities.
Commentary:
Just from first glance in the news reports, there could be one of two ways this accident can be argued, and quite a bit of it hinges on the liquor liability laws in the State of Utah. If there is adequate liquor liability laws, there could be a claim against a bar or liquor store if they were over-served, or sold alcohol despite showing obvious signs of drunkenness. If liquor liability laws (aka dram shop laws) do not apply in this situation, there could be a negligence claim against the driver of the vehicle if they are found to be intoxicated and speeding as the article suggests. Again, a great deal of this rests on the laws, how the facts play out, and the veracity of the news report concerning the accident.
–Grossman Law Offices