In 2006, Lance Allen Chatman ran a stop sign and crashed into a van, severely injuring off-duty Ottawa County Sheriff's Deputy Al Conklin, a passenger in the van. Conklin suffered severe injuries in that crash. Conklin reportedly sustained 21 broken ribs, a crushed pelvis, broken clavicle, punctured right lung and a bruised heart. He stated that he had to learn how to walk, talk and eat again after the crash and it is reported that he currently has no vision in his right eye, limited vision in his left eye and ongoing pain over much of his body. He is no longer able to work.
As a result of the 2006 crash, Chatman was convicted in December 2006 of operating while impaired causing serious injury. Chatman allegedly had THC in his system, the chemical in marijuana, as well as alcohol. Despite spending nearly three years in prison, it has been reported that he was arrested early Monday for
drunken driving, possession of marijuana and fleeing and eluding a Holland Police officer who tried to pull him over for a traffic stop. Chatman reportedly sped away and a high speed chase ensued until Chatman allegedly crashed his car and ran away on foot. He was later found in the woods nearby by a tracking dog.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in an car accident caused by a person who was drinking and driving, you have legal rights that may entitle you to compensation. A Detroit personal injury attorney at Freedman & Freedman can help you exercise those rights by filing an injury or wrongful death lawsuit against the negligent party in an effort secure the largest possible settlement. We strongly believe that those who act recklessly and negligently must be held accountable for their actions, and that's exactly what we intend to do.
Contact the Law Offices of Freedman & Freedman today to learn more about filing a claim!
