GRANBURY, TX (01/31/2016) — A Sunday afternoon motorcycle accident involving an intoxicated driver claimed the life David West.
According the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), 53-year-old David Kevin West was killed when his motorcycle was struck by a drunk driver along FM 4 near Loop 567 in Granbury, Texas.
DPS reported that around 1:30 p.m., 36-year-old LaDonna Welch was traveling southbound in a 2004 Dodge Dakota pickup truck when she drifted into the northbound lane and struck West’s motorcycle head-on.
West’s wife, who was riding a motorcycle behind him, witnessed the accident. West was pronounced dead at the scene.
Trooper Dub Gillum stated that Welch was intoxicated and utilizing her cellphone at the time of the wreck.
Welch was arrested and charged with intoxication manslaughter. She is being held at the Hood County Jail.
Commentary
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 10,076 people were killed in alcohol-related accidents back in 2013—that accounts for an estimated 31% of all traffic-related deaths in the United States. Furthermore, more than 9 people are killed each day as a result of distracted drivers. Paired together, and it’s a sure combination for disaster.
We would like to remind drivers that when you’re driving, not only are you responsible for you life, you’re responsible for the lives of your passengers, other drivers, and even their passengers. This means that taking the utmost care about your driving habits is a must. Before getting behind the wheel, make sure you’re alert, free of distractions, and sober!
