Tragic Wedding Night Collision Results in Million-Dollar Settlement for Grieving Husband
On April 28, 2023, tragedy struck when a drunk driver caused a fatal collision on Folly Beach in South Carolina. Samantha Miller, a bride celebrating her wedding night, lost her life in the accident, while her husband, Aric Hutchinson, was left with a brain injury and multiple broken bones. The driver responsible for the crash, Jamie Lee Komoroski, was allegedly driving at an excessive speed of 65 mph on a road with a speed limit of 25 mph.
Recently, a settlement was approved by Charleston County Circuit Court Judge Roger Young, awarding Hutchinson approximately $863,300 in compensation. The funds will be provided by several entities, including Folly Beach bars The Drop In Bar & Deli, the Crab Shack, and Snapper Jacks; Progressive auto insurance; and Enterprise Rent-A-Car.
Hutchinson filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the businesses, claiming that Komoroski had been visibly intoxicated and had visited multiple bars in the vicinity before getting behind the wheel of her rented Toyota Camry. It was revealed that Komoroski had a blood-alcohol concentration more than three times the legal limit. This egregious act of negligence led to the devastating collision that resulted in Miller’s untimely death.
The settlements reached a total amount of $1.3 million, although the final payout will be less after attorney and legal fees are deducted. While this monetary compensation cannot bring back his beloved wife or fully alleviate his physical and emotional pain, it provides some financial support for Hutchinson as he navigates the difficult aftermath of this tragic event.
Komoroski, who is currently out on bond, is facing severe charges as her case proceeds through the court system. In September, she was charged with felony driving under the influence resulting in death, reckless homicide, and two counts of felony driving under the influence resulting in great bodily injury.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of drunk driving. It not only claimed the life of a young bride but also left her husband with lasting injuries. The legal actions taken by Aric Hutchinson and the subsequent settlement highlight the importance of holding establishments accountable for their role in serving alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals.
While no amount of money can truly compensate for the loss of a loved one, this settlement provides a form of justice and financial support for Aric Hutchinson as he continues to rebuild his life after such a devastating loss. It is crucial for businesses and individuals alike to recognize the responsibility they have in preventing such tragic incidents by making smart choices and prioritizing the safety of themselves and others on the road.
