Kimberly Clark Killed in Pleasant Valley DUI Accident
Driver charged with homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle following Highway 93 collision
Kimberly Clark, 56, of Onalaska, was killed in a DUI accident on State Highway 93 at Severson Road in the Town of Pleasant Valley, Wisconsin, on April 25, according to the Eau Claire County Sheriff’s Office.
Kirk Johnson, 46, of Eleva, was arrested and charged with homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle. A criminal complaint indicates he had a blood alcohol content of 0.207, five prior operating while intoxicated convictions, and a 0.02 alcohol restriction on his license.
The northbound truck entered the southbound lanes and collided with an SUV returning from a funeral. The SUV driver attempted to swerve but could not avoid the merging truck, leaving the SUV in the southeast ditch and the truck perpendicular in the road.
Paramedics found the passenger unconscious without a pulse. A medical examiner pronounced her dead at the scene at 6:35 p.m.
The driver of the SUV suffered facial cuts. The truck driver was uninjured.
Online court records show a $100,000 cash bond was set for the truck driver, with a court hearing scheduled for June 15.
How did the truck cross into oncoming traffic on Highway 93?
Investigators are examining the road evidence to determine the exact sequence of events that led the northbound truck into the southbound lanes. In DUI accidents such as this, crash reconstructionists look at tire marks, vehicle damage, and electronic data to understand the collision dynamics. National Legal Analyst Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal. "A death caused by a drunk driver is a preventable tragedy that leaves lasting pain. Even at the legal limit, a driver’s reaction time slows and their ability to notice what’s happening around them is reduced."
What are the legal options for families affected by repeat DUI offenders?
The criminal charges against the driver address the state's laws, but families of victims often pursue parallel civil actions. While the criminal case proceeds, independent investigations can help secure evidence for a civil claim. According to National Legal Analyst Stefano Formica, Of Counsel at Bond Legal. "We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their best interests are taken care of. Relatives of wrongful death victims are entitled to seek damages for the loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident."
How common are fatal DUI crashes in Wisconsin?
The crash adds to a rising toll across the state. According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, alcohol is the top contributing cause of fatal crashes in Wisconsin, with hundreds of people killed each year in alcohol-involved collisions.
Wisconsin wrongful death statute
Under Wis. Stat. § 895.04, surviving family members may file a wrongful death action. Wisconsin applies modified comparative fault (51% bar). The statute of limitations is 3 years.
Recoverable damages may include loss of financial support, loss of society and companionship, funeral expenses, and the estate's losses.