We wanted to discuss this story from KCBS-TV in Los Angeles about a suspected drunk driving accident that claimed the lives of five young men on September 2, 2012. The crash has garnered some national attention because of the tweets sent by 21-year-old Erwin McKiness moments before the fatal accident in Ontario, California. McKiness, an aspiring Southern California rapper also known as Jew’elz and Inkyy, reportedly tweeted “Drunk af going 120 difting corners #F**kItYOLO” and “Driving tweeting sipping the cup (expletive) yolo I’m turning it up.”
As KCBS noted, “YOLO” is the acronym for the phrase “You Only Live Once,” which was popularized by another rapper, Drake, in his 2011 song “The Motto.” Ontario Police said that while McKiness’ tweet made it sound as though he was driving, it was actually 21-year-old Jonathan Watson who was behind the wheel. Police officers told the San Bernadino Sun that there was still a “high likelihood alcohol was involved,” based on statements like the tweets sent before the crash.
There is no excuse for any motorist to have a “YOLO”-type attitude while behind the wheel, as irresponsibly reckless actions like drunk or distracted driving not only puts the driver at risk, but endangers countless other innocent motorists as well. They also only live once, but presumably intend to make the most of that time.
We have additional information about distracted driving accidents available on our website, and you should know that you may be entitled to compensation if you or a loved one has been seriously injured by a drunk driver or a motorist who was talking or texting on a cell phone while drivings. Contact our firm to set up a free consultation or use the form located on this page to have our Cincinnati injury lawyers review your case.
If you have been injured or have lost a loved one as a result of another person's negligence, you deserve to be fully compensated for your losses. The simple fact is that you should not be forced to pay the price for another person's careless or reckless actions.