Sammi Kane Kraft, who was best known for her role in the 2005 remake of the 1976 film, “Bad News Bears” was killed in an auto accident in Los Angeles. The 20-year-old actress played the part of Amada Whurlitzer, the female pitcher on the all-boys team first made famous by Tatum O’Neal. According to a report by the Los Angeles Times, Kraft was in an Audi that crashed into a semi-truck on Interstate 10 in the early hours of October 9th. The car was then struck from behind by another vehicle.
Police suspect that alcohol played a part in accident, and arrested the driver of the Audi on suspicion of drunken driving.
As a matter of law, drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles in a safe in reasonable manner. This means that motorists should not be under the influence of alcohol (or any other mood altering substances) while behind the wheel. Alcohol affects the brain by impairing a person’s sense of judgment. This could lead a driver to take unnecessary risks or drive erratically, thus possibly leading to an accident.
If a drunk driver causes a fatal accident, he or she could be held liable through a wrongful death action. This type of lawsuit seeks money damages for future lost income, loss of companionship, emotional trauma, and other related costs.
If you have lost a loved one in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, an experienced personal injury lawyer can evaluate your case and advise you on your rights and options.
Source: Cleveland.com, “Actress who starred in Bad News Bears’ Killed”, October 11, 2012
