Since the start of the holiday season, we’ve been discussing the dangers of impaired driving, as the rate of alcohol-related crashes tends to be higher in the midst of holiday festivities. Far too often, impaired driving has devastating consequences for Ontario residents.

Unfortunately, that appears to have been the case in a recent collision in south Ottawa. A 43-year-old woman was taken to hospital with serious injuries after a pickup truck crashed into her car. The collision caused the woman temporarily to lose consciousness, and firefighters had to remove the roof of the car to extricate her from the wreckage. The woman reportedly suffered facial trauma and serious head injury.

The 25-year-old driver of the pickup truck is now facing a number of charges, including impaired driving and failure to remain at the scene. According to police, the young man left the scene on foot and was arrested after being located by a police dog.

A CBC News report does not indicate where the man may have been prior to the collision. In some cases, drinking establishments can be held liable for overserving patrons. Further investigation may offer some clarity as to exactly what led to the crash and the woman’s injuries.

Each year impaired drivers leave holiday parties, bars, taverns and other establishments to cause serious injuries to other people. When this happens, victims may need to explore their legal options for covering the various physical and monetary costs resulting from another party’s negligence. If you have been injured in such an accident, then a personal injury lawyer can assess your case and seek to maximize your compensation.