UGA Crash Survivor Seeks $5M in New Lawsuit Filing

The UGA crash that took two lives in January 2023 is back in the news this week after survivor Victoria Bowles filed an amended complaint with new testimony from former Georgia defensive lineman Jalen Carter. The lawsuit brings fresh details about the deadly racing incident that rocked the university community.

New Details Emerge in UGA Crash Case

Bowles, a former University of Georgia recruiting analyst, amended her lawsuit in Athens-Clarke County State Court, seeking over $5 million in damages from Carter and his company. The filing includes previously unreported testimony from Carter’s deposition, offering new insights into the fatal collision that occurred just hours after Georgia’s national championship celebration.

This UGA crash resulted in the deaths of recruiting staffer Chandler LeCroy and offensive lineman Devin Willock. Both vehicles were reportedly traveling at approximately 99 mph when LeCroy’s SUV veered off Barnett Shoals Road at 104 mph before crashing. LeCroy’s blood alcohol level was .197, more than twice the legal limit.

Bowles sustained catastrophic injuries, including roughly 20 fractures, spinal compression, and chronic complications that have left her unable to work. Her medical expenses have exceeded $171,000, with lost wages totaling over $27,000 to date.

Carter’s Testimony Raises Questions

According to court documents, Carter acknowledged that his downtown launch from a red light could be considered reckless driving. When questioned about why he was speeding, Carter testified he was “just being myself” rather than trying to catch up with anyone.

The lawsuit alleges that Carter initially left the accident scene before returning at the request of a team official. Most concerning to legal experts is Carter’s reported testimony about not checking on Bowles after the accident, stating she “wasn’t helping me get to the NFL.”

Carter’s attorney has disputed these characterizations, calling them “completely false” and claiming the testimony was taken out of context or resulted from leading questions.

Legal Implications for Motor Vehicle Cases

This case highlights critical issues in motor vehicle accident litigation, particularly regarding street racing and shared liability. The plaintiff’s legal team argues that Carter and LeCroy engaged in an “unlawful joint enterprise” through their tandem high-speed driving before the UGA crash occurred.

The lawsuit seeks general damages, special damages for medical expenses and lost wages, plus uncapped punitive damages under Georgia law. Such cases often involve complex liability determinations when multiple parties contribute to catastrophic outcomes.

For families dealing with similar wrongful death situations involving reckless driving, this case demonstrates the importance of thorough investigation and aggressive legal representation.

Moving Forward

Carter, now with the Philadelphia Eagles, faces this UGA crash civil lawsuit while dealing with recent NFL controversies. The legal proceedings continue as Bowles seeks accountability and compensation for injuries that have permanently altered her life.

The UGA crash case serves as a sobering reminder of how split-second decisions can have devastating, lasting consequences for all involved parties.

Source: FOX 5 Atlanta

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident involving reckless driving, experienced legal representation can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve. Call Southside Injury Law at (770) 703-6008 or (800) 393-8595 today or visit our contact page to discuss your case.