Newbury, VT (December 26, 2024) – A vehicle crash late Wednesday night on Interstate 91 South near mile marker 109.4 left one person seriously injured and two others shaken. Authorities identified alcohol as a contributing factor in the incident.
The Vermont State Police reported that 23-year-old Pratikumar Patel of Elmhurst, NY, was driving a 2024 Toyota Highlander when he lost control of the vehicle. The SUV veered off the east side of the roadway into the median, colliding with two trees. The crash occurred at approximately 9:21 p.m. under cloudy skies and wet road conditions.
Patel, who was not wearing a seat belt, sustained serious injuries and was transported to Cottage Hospital in Woodsville, NH, for medical treatment. Two passengers, Devang Prajapati, 23, of Enfield, NH, and Yogeshkumar Patel, 28, of Woodsville, NH, were also in the vehicle and reportedly unrestrained at the time of the crash.
Preliminary investigations revealed that alcohol played a significant role in the accident. Patel has been cited for negligent operation and reckless endangerment, with additional charges pending as the investigation continues. The Vermont Civil Violation Complaint remains under review.
The authorities are urging all motorists to exercise caution, especially under challenging weather conditions, and to avoid impaired driving. Our thoughts are with those injured in this incident as they recover.
DUI Accidents in Vermont
Driving under the influence (DUI) remains a leading cause of serious accidents across Vermont. The combination of alcohol impairment, wet roads, and lack of seat belt usage significantly increases the likelihood of severe injuries or fatalities during a crash. Interstate highways, like I-91, are particularly prone to such incidents due to higher speeds and adverse weather conditions.
In Vermont, law enforcement continues to emphasize the importance of responsible driving practices, especially during the holiday season, when impaired driving incidents tend to rise. State laws impose strict penalties on DUI offenses, ranging from fines to imprisonment, aimed at deterring negligent behaviors on the road.
Victims of alcohol-related crashes often face substantial medical expenses, emotional distress, and ongoing recovery challenges. It’s critical for those affected to understand their rights and seek legal advice to pursue compensation for damages.
For more information or to receive help after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports. If you or someone you know has been injured or affected by a DUI crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.