Knoxville, TN (December 28, 2023) 37-year-old Erwin Lanza was arrested following a collision on Interstate 40, near Turkey Creek in Knox County, Tennessee. Lanza, a Gatlinburg resident, faces several charges following this collision.
Jimmy Davis, an off-duty Loudon County Sheriff, was following a pickup truck after he watched it hit several other vehicles. The truck eventually slammed into a concrete barrier. Davis called 911 around 2:30 p.m., records indicate. He told Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers that he approached the vehicle to make sure everyone was okay and the driver came out of the vehicle, aggressively. Lanza immediately charged at Davis and began fighting him, injuring his ribs and his head, according to investigators.
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Lanza was taken to UT Medical Center for treatment, where he admitted to hitting four other vehicles before crashing into the concrete barrier. One of the vehicles he hit was a Tennessee Department of Transportation work truck. Injuries were reported from the vehicles hit, but the number of people injuries or the severity of injuries have not been released.
Officers took Lanza into custody and he faces charges of driving under the influence, aggravated assault, reckless endangerment leaving the scene of an accident and several other traffic violations, according to authorities.
Liability In Knoxville DUI Car Accidents
It is illegal to drive a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Even small amounts of alcohol can substantially impair drivers in the following ways:
- Delayed reaction times
- Loss of muscle control
- Impaired judgment
- Lowered alertness
The family of any victim that has been injured or killed in a collision with a drunk driver may have legal recourse through a bodily injury or wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Knoxville DUI Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend well wishes to those who were injured in this collision. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about an accident that took place in Knoxville? There are a number of laws designed to protect your rights. Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions that you may have. Whether you just have legal questions or need more information about an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (866) 945-4286.