When you are stopped and arrested for drunk driving, the police officer may not ask why you were drinking and driving. Even if you just had one drink too many, the consequences will still apply in your situation.

A young man from Pennsylvania was recently charged with manslaughter and DUI after getting involved in a six-vehicle crash. One driver was killed and four more injured. The young man is currently in custody of the police; it is unclear what sort of penalties may result from a conviction.

According to the police, the accident occurred earlier this week in the evening. Apparently the young man collided with another vehicle from behind; the other vehicle had been at a stop while the young man's car was going at a high speed. The rear-ended vehicle slammed into another car.

The young man's car continued moving and crashed into a pick-up truck. The pick-up truck flipped over, landing on the car in front of it. A passing vehicle was struck by fragments from the crash.

Responders arrived and transported those involved in the accident to a nearby trauma center. The driver of the car that was first hit did not survive. The rest of the individuals were released after receiving treatment for their injuries.

So what happened before the accident? Why was the young man behind the wheel? How did police determine that he was intoxicated? What does this mean for his future?

These are all questions that will be answered as police continue to investigate what happened. But one thing is clear: if the young man is convicted of the two charges, his future may be jeopardized. A criminal record can significantly affect his future employment and educational opportunities, especially if he is sentenced to prison. Speaking with someone who can help him mount a defense against the charges will likely help protect his future.

Source: Middletown Transcript: "Hockessin man killed in six vehicle crash; drunk driver charged with manslaughter," Kim Manahan, Oct. 12, 2011