The driver responsible for the death of a six-year-old boy and the company he works for has been ordered to pay $32 million to the surviving family members in connection to the 2012 crash.
Court documents indicate that Elijah Straw was just one week shy of his seventh birthday when he was killed in an accident. The family’s vehicle, a Pontiac Vibe was having car trouble while the family was traveling northbound on Route 28, 2012.
The family vehicle was struck by a truck being driven by Kirk Fair of Kittanning. The lawsuit alleged that Fair, who was working for Golon Masonry, had a record of multiple convictions of DUI. Fair also did not possess a valid driver’s license at the time of the fatal accident that cut short Elijah Short’s life.
Investigators said that Fair had plenty of time to avoid the accident but struck the Straw family’s disabled vehicle. Fair pleaded guilty to the charges of homicide by vehicle, speeding and reckless endangerment. He faces a sentence of 6 – 23 months in jail and the Allegheny County jury ordered settlement of $32 million. The award is one of the largest in the state’s history involving the wrongful death of a child
When someone is facing the seemingly hopeless situation of DUI, especially when there are serious injuries or fatalities involved, it is life changing. Even with such a serious charge leveled against you, there can be any number of factors that could cast doubt on a DUI case. If there have been any mistakes that have been made regarding DUI evidence as well as other factors that can make a difference in how a defendant is sentenced.
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If you or a loved one is currently facing the charge of DUI, contact us at the number on your screen to schedule a free initial consultation and legal analysis. Even if you are currently in jail, Mr. Kellis can come to you. Contact us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. Attorney Steve Kellis is here to help.