A fatal collision from over the weekend appears to be the result of a stolen vehicle and alcohol. Utah Highway Patrol reports that a stolen green Ford Taurus crossed into oncoming traffic near Moab on Saturday and struck a Ford Escape head-on. Filemon Montoya of Sweetwater, Texas, the driver of the Escape, was killed upon impact despite wearing a seatbelt. The driver of the Taurus was taken to Moab Regional Hospital in critical condition and later transported to St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction via helicopter. The Utah Highway Patrol attributes alcohol and excessive speed on the part of the driver of the Taurus as the main reasons for which the accident occurred.
Our hearts truly go out to the family of Filemon Montoya. There is perhaps nothing more unjust about life than such an event—when life is stolen away through the selfish and negligent acts of another. Words can never suffice at such a time; we wish the family whatever amount of peace can be felt.
Criminal
Simply put, to drive while intoxicated is a selfish decision, one worthy of jail time and heavy fines. Speed was also a factor in the event and the vehicle was stolen, which compound the issue all together. Call this accident what you will—a crime, a wrongful death, a fatal accident, a drunk driving accident—all will apply, but none truly serve the purpose of justice for the harm this individual has caused.
A Utah drunk driving accident attorney is prepared to help the families of those who have seen loved ones untimely slip through death’s doors as the result of the actions of another. Such an accident would be considered a wrongful death, and the family of the deceased would be able to seek compensation for the death of him/her who had recently passed. For a free consultation with an experienced and compassionate advocate, call us at (801) 506-0800.
About Ken Christensen
Ken Christensen is founder of Christensen & Hymas, and an attorney-at-law, licensed in the State of Utah. He has extensive legal experience in negotiation, settlements and litigation of various types of legal matters such as personal injury, wrongful death, and insurance claims. Ken is committed to providing the highest quality of legal services for his clients; personal attention is his specialty.