A young woman from South Carolina could face harsh penalties after one person died in an alcohol-related crash. The accident happened late last month around 4:45 in the afternoon. Officials with the South Carolina Highway Patrol say that two vehicles were traveling westbound when they hit each other. The impact of the initial accident sent one of the vehicles into oncoming traffic.

Authorities have charged the driver of one of the vehicles, a 21-year-old female, with felony DUI resulting in death, two counts of felony DUI with great bodily injury and driving under suspension.

A 67-year-old woman was killed in the crash. Two other people were injured.

The young female driver was treated for injuries sustained in the crash before being taken to the Spartanburg County Detention Facility.

The 21-year-old driver went before a judge on Feb. 9. Her bond was denied.

The young woman would likely benefit from working with an attorney who is experienced in defending individuals who are charged with DUI. An attorney can prepare an aggressive defense against the charges and also ensure that an individual's rights remain protected throughout the entire process. Although DUI charges are serious, an individual still has the right to a strong defense, as well as a fair trial.

When someone is convicted of DUI, they can face severe consequences. In addition to fines and loss of driver's license, a person can face time behind bars. Because the stakes are so high, it is important to seek out the right legal advice.

Source: Go Upstate, "Spartanburg woman, 21, charged in crash that killed Wellford woman, 67," Jenny Arnold, Feb. 8, 2012