Family Outraged by Light Sentences for Fatal Crash in Montenegro

The family of 17-year-old T. Đ., who died following a traffic accident in Montenegro, has expressed outrage over a recent court ruling. The court sentenced N. S. (52) to six months of house arrest and imposed two educational measures along with a two-year driving ban on E. G. (20). These penalties stem from an accident that occurred on April 21, 2023, at the Stari Aerodrom neighborhood in Podgorica, where T. Đ. sustained injuries that led to her death on May 4, 2023.

The incident took place when E. G. was driving an Audi A3 at almost double the speed limit, reaching 114 kilometers per hour in a zone where the maximum allowed speed was 50 kilometers per hour. At the same time, N. S. was making an unsafe left turn in a Renault Megane. According to traffic experts, both drivers contributed to the collision. The investigation revealed that the crash could have been avoided if E. G. had adhered to the speed limit, and if N. S. had yielded to oncoming traffic.

The family of T. Đ. has condemned the ruling, labeling it as a “shocking and dangerous precedent.” They claim that the decision sends a message to young drivers that reckless behavior can occur without serious consequences. The family expressed their disbelief, stating, “For driving over 100 kilometers per hour where 50 is allowed, she received a measure of increased parental supervision.” The mother of the deceased described the ruling as “too lenient, disgraceful, and alarming.”

In their statement, the family criticized E. G.’s actions leading up to the accident, revealing that she drove without a license and had taken the family vehicle without permission. They feel the court’s decision does not adequately address the severity of her actions and its impact on their lives. “It feels as if this ruling encourages minors to take car keys and act recklessly,” stated the mother, who also mentioned her willingness to face repercussions for her comments.

The family highlighted their distress not only over the ruling but also over E. G.’s behavior following the incident. They noted that she posted cheerful videos on social media, including TikTok, even as the court proceedings began. “Her lack of remorse is evident; if she had any conscience, she would not have taken pictures at the accident site where our T. lost her life,” said T. Đ.’s aunt.

E. G. reportedly expressed sorrow during her court appearance, stating, “I’m sorry this happened. It hurts when they say I lack empathy, but I do have it. My condolences.” The family felt that her remarks were insincere and rehearsed, attributing them to her lawyer’s influence. As it stands, the family cannot appeal the sentence, but the Higher Prosecutor’s Office in Podgorica has yet to comment on future actions regarding the case.

The tragic loss of T. Đ. has left a significant impact on her family and the community, raising concerns about the implications of the court’s decision for young drivers in Montenegro. The case highlights the ongoing debate over road safety and the responsibility of drivers, particularly those who are minors.