Inspiring Win: Scholarship for Car Accident Survivor

Rogers, United States - May 14, 2025 / Keith Law Group: Rogers Injury & Accident Lawyer /

Keith Law Group is delighted to announce that Tucker Chatelain, a student from Scranton High School, has been awarded the 2025 "Steer Your Future" Scholarship. Tucker, set to embark on his studies at Arkansas Tech University this fall, stood out with his impactful video submission that chronicles his remarkable journey of survival, recovery, and determination after a harrowing collision with a drunk driver.

A Life Forever Changed in an Instant

August 2022 marked a turning point in Tucker's life when a reckless drunk driver collided with his truck. At that time, Tucker had just completed his sophomore basketball season and was working hard to secure a position as a starter. He had recently celebrated two significant milestones: earning his driver’s license and buying his very first truck.

The crash resulted in severe injuries for Tucker, including internal bleeding, a collapsed lung, a fractured femur and ankle, multiple fractured vertebrae, and a moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). His two closest friends, who witnessed the tragic event, called 911 without hesitation. Thanks to his seatbelt and airbag, Tucker survived but was immediately airlifted to Arkansas Children's Hospital in critical condition.

"Tucker's story struck a chord with our team," remarked a representative from Keith Law Group. "His experiences serve as a powerful reminder of the devastating effects of driving under the influence—something we see far too often in our personal injury practice."

Fighting Against Overwhelming Odds

In the early days following his accident, Tucker was unable to communicate except by blinking. For several weeks, he remained largely unresponsive. Upon beginning intensive rehabilitation therapy, progress was slow and frustrating, with doctors cautioning his family that he might never regain full recovery or even comprehend spoken language again.

The turning point arrived when Tucker’s mother prompted him to press the number 2 on her phone if he understood what she was saying—and he did, repeatedly. This small yet significant response marked the start of an incredible comeback journey.

A Community United in Support

Tucker’s road to recovery involved relearning basic skills that many take for granted, such as sitting up, walking, and even spinning a basketball. When he was eventually released from the hospital, his entire community came together to celebrate his return with a hero’s welcome.

His rehabilitation continued with outpatient therapy four days a week, requiring two hours of travel each day, in addition to weekly in-home therapy sessions. Though he was unable to participate in sports, Tucker returned to school, where he contributed to the basketball team’s management, offering support to his peers.