Which drivers will be arrested after causing an accident in Omaha?
Omaha, NE – There were news reports that a woman from Nebraska would be sentenced for causing an accident that killed four people [1].
Driver receives lengthy prison sentence for fatal accident
In a tragic case that shook Omaha, Rachel Bickerstaff was sentenced to 140 to 180 years in prison for four counts of motor vehicle homicide following a fiery crash in September 2024 near 10th and Douglas streets. The crash claimed the lives of 70-year-old Michael Sales and three of Bickerstaff’s children—a 5-year-old girl, an 18-month-old girl, and an 11-day-old infant. Another passenger in Bickerstaff’s vehicle was critically injured. Bickerstaff, who pleaded no contest to the charges in March 2025, will be eligible for parole after 70 years, and her driver’s license was revoked for 15 years.
Prosecutors revealed Bickerstaff was driving her Jeep at 139 mph five seconds before colliding with Sales’ Subaru, which had just turned onto Douglas Street. At impact, her speed exceeded 100 mph, causing both vehicles to veer eastward, with the Subaru striking a light pole. Court documents disclosed Bickerstaff’s blood alcohol content was 0.216, nearly three times the legal limit, and she had a prior DUI conviction in 2020. A dismissed charge of driving under the influence causing serious bodily injury was noted, alongside a recent assault charge against a cellmate.
At the sentencing, Bickerstaff expressed remorse, stating she would trade her life for those lost. However, Laura Sales, the victim’s daughter, emphasized the intentional nature of the act, demanding a severe sentence. The judge, acknowledging Bickerstaff’s traumatic childhood and genuine remorse, described the case as having exceptionally grave circumstances. Bickerstaff, a mother of seven, lost custody of four children, with three perishing in the crash. The tragedy deeply affected first responders and all involved, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
When can a driver face criminal charges for an accident in Nebraska?
In Nebraska, drivers can face criminal charges for car accidents under specific circumstances involving reckless or negligent behavior, as outlined in state laws. Criminal charges typically arise when a driver’s actions violate traffic statutes and result in significant harm, such as injuries, fatalities, or substantial property damage. Below are key scenarios where charges may be filed, based on Nebraska’s legal framework.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 or higher, or under the influence of drugs, can lead to DUI charges. If a DUI-related accident causes injury or death, penalties escalate, including fines, jail time, and license suspension. For instance, a driver with a prior DUI conviction, like Rachel Bickerstaff in a 2024 Omaha case, may face enhanced charges if their intoxication contributes to a fatal crash.
Reckless or Willful Reckless Driving: Nebraska defines reckless driving as operating a vehicle with disregard for others’ safety. Willful reckless driving, involving intentional disregard, is a Class III misdemeanor, with penalties including up to three months in jail and fines. If reckless driving results in fatalities, charges like motor vehicle homicide—a felony carrying up to seven years in prison—may apply, as seen in cases involving excessive speeding (e.g., 139 mph in Bickerstaff’s case).
Hit-and-Run Accidents: Leaving the scene of an accident involving injury, death, or property damage over $1,500 is a crime. A first offense for property damage is a Class II misdemeanor (up to six months in jail, $1,000 fine), escalating to a Class IIIA felony for injuries (up to seven years). Failure to render aid or provide information exacerbates penalties.
Other Violations: Distracted driving or speeding causing accidents may lead to charges if deemed negligent. For example, a “Following too Close” ticket in a rear-end collision can indicate fault, potentially leading to criminal liability if injuries occur.
Accident attorneys in Omaha
Rensch and Rensch is an experienced injury firm that helps people in the area of Omaha, Nebraska. They can provide more information about civil car accident lawsuits for compensation.
USAttorneys.com is a service that connects people with lawyers anywhere in the country. Those who need a referral to a local attorney can call 800-672-3103 for a free consultation.
Firm contact info:
7602 Pacific Street, #102
Omaha, NE 68114
800-471-4100
www.renschandrensch.com
Sources:
- https://www.ketv.com/article/omaha-driver-fiery-crash-sentencing-rachel-bickerstaff/65100824
