An 18-year-old woman was killed in an Oklahoma car accident, which officials say, was caused by two vehicles racing each other on a public roadway. According to a News 9 report, the woman was killed when two cars that were racing crashed into the teen’s van at the intersection of 81st and Delaware.
The teen was riding in a van with her family when another vehicle, traveling at nearly 100 mph, slammed into the van. The teen and two others were transported to a local hospital. The teen suffered brain injuries as well as injuries to her back and hip. She later died from her injuries. Charges are pending against the other driver.
Street racing on public roadways is illegal in Oklahoma. However, there is a culture of underground drag racing, particularly in urban areas such as Tulsa and Oklahoma City. In fact, Oklahoma City police have begun investigating the stars of The Discovery Channel show called Street Outlaws, which features drag racing on city streets. Avoiding and running away from police is a big part of the show.
Driving at dangerous speeds on city streets is absolutely unacceptable. As witnessed in this particular case, it can cause catastrophic injuries and fatalities, affecting innocent bystanders and law-abiding citizens who had nothing to do with racing. In such cases, offenders, in addition to facing criminal penalties, can also be held financially responsible for the victims’ injuries and losses. An experienced Oklahoma auto accident attorney will be able to help injured victims or their families better understand their legal rights and options.
