DaimlerChrysler, chopper builder Billy Lane and the family of a Sebastian Inlet park ranger killed in a Labor Day accident that police say was caused by drunk-driving have reached a confidential settlement, the deceased man’s family said today.
"We would like to personally show our gratitude and heart-filled thanks to all of the people throughout the nation that have showed us their support, love and caring," Byron Morelock, brother of Gerald Morelock, said in a statement signed by the family.
"My family may not have made it through these hard times if it wasn't for your caring and sympathy," he said.
The settlement came 10 months after Morelock's mother sued Lane, 37, and DaimlerChrysler -- which provided Lane with the Dodge pickup truck he was driving -- over the fatal crash in which police said Lane crossed a double-yellow line and hit Gerald Morelock's mini-Yamaha motorcycle.
The suit alleged Lane, who police say had a blood-alcohol level of .192 the night of the accident, and DaimlerChrysler, which the family said used Lane's fame to advertise its vehicles despite prior driving citations on Lane's record, were liable for auto negligence.
Byron Morelock said it took about 10 hours of "grueling" debate Monday before an agreement was reached. No details of the agreement were made public.
Lane still faces a criminal trial in which he could be sentenced to a maximum 15 years in prison if convicted of DUI manslaughter.
A trial date has not been set.
Source: Florida Today www.floridatoday.com
Saturday, July 28, 2007
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