FAIRFIELD, Conn. (AP) — A Sacred Heart University student has filed a lawsuit against the driver and the university following a serious crash that occurred near campus in September. Amanda Hanlon, one of six people injured in the incident, is seeking damages for her injuries.
The crash took place on September 29 when an Audi driven by 19-year-old Tyler Delk from New Jersey collided with an Uber carrying Hanlon and four other freshmen. Hanlon sustained significant injuries, including facial fractures, a collapsed lung, spine injuries, and a concussion.
Delk, who is a sophomore at Sacred Heart University, was allegedly driving over 85 mph and was reportedly ten times over the legal limit for alcohol at the time of the crash. In Connecticut, the legal limit for alcohol for a person under 21 is .02%. Delk was arrested and charged with driving under the influence, reckless driving, five counts of second-degree assault with a motor vehicle, and five counts of reckless endangerment.
Hanlon’s lawsuit also names the university, accusing them of allowing Delk to consume alcohol illegally on campus prior to the crash. The university has not made any comment regarding the pending litigation.
The lawsuit seeks to hold Delk accountable for his actions and the university liable for their alleged negligence in allowing underage drinking on their premises. Hanlon and her legal team are seeking compensation for her medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages incurred as a result of the crash.
The court hearing for Delk is scheduled for January 18, where he will face the charges brought against him. Hanlon’s lawsuit against both Delk and the university will proceed as the legal proceedings continue.
The crash near Sacred Heart University left Hanlon and the other passengers in the Uber seriously injured. Hanlon’s injuries were severe, and she is seeking justice for the harm she suffered. The outcome of the lawsuit will determine whether she receives the compensation she believes she deserves for the physical and emotional toll the crash has taken on her.