A motor vehicle accident can happen before a driver even has an opportunity to respond to a changing condition. A suddenly slowing vehicle or a single moment of distraction, for instance, can easily lead to a collision. Unfortunately, police in Missouri and across the country may be quick to assume that an accident was the result of drunk driving regardless of the evidence.
In fact, a man from another state is now facing accusations of driving under the influence after he was reportedly involved in an accident on a Missouri interstate. The incident happened on a day in February. According to reports, a 32-year-old man was headed north when his pickup truck struck the rear of another northbound vehicle.
Police say that the driver of the pickup left the scene. Two people in the second vehicle, the 44-year-old driver and his 34-year-old passenger, were transported to the hospital. Police say they were able to locate the pickup truck and driver soon afterward and make an arrest.
In addition to charges related to drunk driving, the man also faces charges of leaving the scene of an accident, no license and careless and imprudent driving. Despite the reports about the accident, many details about it remain unclear, including the events leading up to the collision and how Missouri police determined the man’s blood alcohol content. Regardless of the claims against the man, there must be sufficient evidence to prove that he is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt — a standard that is often difficult to meet.