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A Plant City, FL, man is in the Hillsborough County Jail today as he waits for his court hearing on Friday after being charged with DUI manslaughter. The charges arise from a car accidentthat occurred on March 6 that resulted in two people being killed and two others injured including the accused.
Florida State Troopers told a New York Injury Lawyer that the accused was driving eastbound on State Road 60, in the westbound lanes, and just west of State Road 39. He then reportedly struck an oncoming vehicle nearly head-on. The 33-year old driver of the other vehicle was seriously injured, and her 34-year old passenger was killed at the scene. The accused man’s 23-year old passenger was also killed in the crash. The man who has been arrested and charged as a result of this was also injured.
Many of the eyewitnesses of the crash were horrified, and those who could see the vehicle driving in the wrong direction report that they felt helpless as they watched and could do nothing to stop it.
As part of their ongoing investigation, the troopers reports said that the 50-year old man’s blood alcohol content was 0.216. Florida’s legal maximum blood alcohol content is 0.08. Driving under the influence and manslaughter are not the accused only charges that he faces. A NYC Personal Injury Lawyer also found the man has also been charged with “driving under the influence involving serious bodily injury, and one count of DUI property damage.” Since he was driving on the wrong side of the road, he received a traffic citation for that as well.
In the State of Florida, DUI manslaughter is considered a Second Degree Felony. If convicted the accused faces heavy fines, payment of restitution, and a maximum prison sentence of up to 15 years. If convicted of the charge of DUI involving serious bodily injury, which is a Third Degree Felony, he could receive up to a $5,000 fine and up to five-years in prison. There is also the possibility of his losing his driving license for the rest of his life also.
If you have suffered injury due to the carelessness or negligence of another party, it is important to speak to legal counsel right away. You have a right to receive just compensation for your injuries, which can include reimbursement for medical expenses, lost income from work, and pain and suffering. It is important to act promptly however, as there are strict filing deadlines on personal injury cases. Do not delay, and call us today for a free consultation.
Contact Stephen Bilkis and Associates today and let us help to set things right and allow you to get back onto the road of recovery.