Eleven years after the Honorable Edwin Collier spared a repeat offender for driving under the influence for two DUI(s) within three months, he veered into the Judge's lane of travel and struck his vehicle head on. Judge Collier and his wife, Ellen, were driving in Gaithersburg when the head on collision occurred. Judge Collier suffered a broken leg and fractured ribs, and his wife, Ellen, suffered a compound leg fracture, fractured hip, fractured ribs and a neck injury. It was determined that the repeat offender, Rene E. Fernandez who was tested after the accident, had more than two times the legal limit of alcohol in his system.
According to Montgomery County Circuit Court records, Mr. Fernandez was to plead guilty to one count of causing a life threatening injury, while intoxicated. The remaining charges would be dropped according to a plea agreement. The sentencing guidelines call for up to two years in prison. Mr. Fernandez is presently awaiting disposition from the Circuit Court for Montgomery County.
Judge Collier and his wife, Ellen were forced to move from their Bethesda home to a retirement community due to diminished mobility caused by Mr. Fernandez.
If you, a family member or someone you know has been involved in an automobile accident involving a drunk driver or you need more information on automobile accidents or drunk driving laws, please contact one of our experienced personal injury lawyers or DUI lawyers at Portner & Shure for a free consultation.
No comments:
Post a Comment