Motorists risk crossing paths with impaired drivers in Florida and across the country. The Florida Highway Patrol reported a fatal accident that occurred on U.S. Highway 92. Reportedly, an alleged drunk driver crashed into another vehicle shortly before midnight on a recent Saturday evening.
According to an accident report issued by FHP, a 21-year-old driver disregarded a stoplight at a side road that forms an intersection where it crosses U.S. Highway 92. He collided with a vehicle that was heading east on the highway. The male driver of that car was 29 years old, and his passenger was a 28-year-old female.
Both occupants of the eastbound car suffered serious injuries. First responders rushed them to an area hospital, where the driver succumbed to his injuries. The alleged drunk driver was arrested and charged with DUI manslaughter before being transported to the county jail. Reportedly, he suffered no injuries. However, FHP provided no information about his blood alcohol content.
The injured female passenger will be entitled to pursue financial relief by filing a personal injury lawsuit. Similarly, the deceased driver’s surviving family could file a wrongful death claim against the alleged drunk driver. Proving negligence is typically a daunting prospect, and an attorney with experience in dealing with cases against drunk drivers might be the best person to navigate the civil lawsuits. The injured passenger could seek damage recovery for medical expenses, lost income and other non-financial damages. Simultaneously, the deceased driver’s family could list end-of-life expenses and loss of potential wages on their documented claims for the court’s adjudication.