Title: Husband of Bride Killed in Drunk Driving Incident on Wedding Night Settles Lawsuit for Nearly $1 Million

In a tragic incident that occurred on Folly Beach, South Carolina, last year, a bride lost her life in a collision caused by a drunk driver on her wedding night. Now, the husband of the deceased bride will receive a settlement of almost $1 million connected to the crash.

According to The Post and Courier, Aric Hutchinson will receive approximately $863,300 from several parties involved in the incident, including Folly Beach bars The Drop In Bar & Deli, the Crab Shack, and Snapper Jacks. The settlement was approved by Charleston County Circuit Court Judge Roger Young earlier this week.

The lawsuit was filed by Hutchinson against the businesses after driver Jamie Lee Komoroski crashed a rented vehicle into a golf cart carrying the newlywed couple away from their wedding reception on April 28, 2023. Tragically, the impact of the crash caused the golf cart to be thrown a staggering 100 yards (91.44 meters), leading to the death of Samantha Miller, 34, while she was still dressed in her wedding attire. Hutchinson sustained a brain injury and multiple broken bones but survived the incident.

Reports indicate that Komoroski was driving at a high speed of 65 mph on a road with a speed limit of 25 mph. In the wrongful death lawsuit, Hutchinson argued that Komoroski had shown signs of intoxication, including slurred speech and unsteady movements, after frequenting multiple bars in the Folly Beach area. Komoroski's blood-alcohol concentration was measured at over three times the legal limit at the time of the incident.

The total settlement amounts to $1.3 million, though it will be reduced after attorney and legal fees are deducted. Komoroski, who is currently out on bond, is facing charges of felony driving under the influence resulting in death, reckless homicide, and two counts of felony driving under the influence resulting in great bodily injury.

This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences that can arise from drunk driving. It is hoped that this substantial settlement will aid Hutchinson in his recovery and bring some measure of justice to the untimely loss of Samantha Miller's life.

As Komoroski's case proceeds through the court system, the community will be closely observing the legal proceedings to ensure that justice is served.