Updated 03/24/2011 03:50 PM
Attorney: Bronx Bus Crash Driver Was Awake And Sober
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An attorney for the driver behind the wheel in the deadly bus crash on the New York Thruway in the Bronx earlier this month says his client was awake and sober at the time of the crash.
Ophadell Williams' attorney Sean Rooney calls the crash a tragic accident.
He disputed claims from passengers that Williams repeatedly swerved prior to the March 12th crash that killed 15 people and injured more than a dozen others.
Moreover, the attorney said Williams does not smoke, drink or do drugs.
Police found no trace of alcohol on Williams' breath – and he has not been charged in the crash.
Two passengers filed lawsuits yesterday against Williams and the bus company. Yuke Chue Lo, 74, claims Williams fell asleep and was speeding.
Fellow passenger Erold Jean Marie says the driver repeatedly swerved prior to the crash. He says he did not see a tractor-trailer swerve toward the bus -- as Williams has said.
Jean Marie suffered injuries to his shoulder and spine. He is demanding $200 million in damages.
Lo's attorney says she suffered a fractured skull and traumatic brain injury in the crash.