Fatal ATV Crash Lawsuit Results in a $2.7 million Settlement

In Tennessee and all over the United States, people can be seriously injured or even die in automobile and ATV accidents, especially if the person driving these vehicles is under the influence of alcohol. According to a recent lawsuit, an ATV crash killed Jonathon Byram, a nineteen year old college student after a 2009 Independence Day party. In the early morning of July 5, 2009, Byram was a passenger on the vehicle which was being driven by Mark Renehan, also a college student. The ATV vehicle flipped over resulting in the fatal crash. Mark Renehan was charged with homicide and involuntary manslaughter. He was later acquitted of the charges by a jury.

Daniel Byram, the victim’s father, filed a federal lawsuit claiming Mark Renehan was intoxicated and driving excessively fast and this caused the death of his son. The lawsuit goes on to claim that Mark Renehan’s family served alcohol to them on a “continuous basis” over several hours leading up to the time of the crash and that Mark Renehan had admitted to the police that he had consumed alcohol.

The criminal investigation and trial were held back due to Mark Renehan invoking his Fifth Amendment rights and also refusing to have a blood alcohol test done. The case has now been settled for $2.7 million.

Unfortunately cases just like this one happen all too often all across the country and right here in Tennessee. If you or someone you know has lost a loved one or friend due to an ATV or automobile accident that could have been prevented, we encourage you to contact one of our caring and knowledgeable Tennessee wrongful death and personal injury attorneys right away. We care about our clients and will work to make sure that you get the compensation you need for what you have suffered.