Florida Man Charged in DUI-Related Accident

A man from Melbourne, Florida has been arrested and charged due to being involved in a traffic accident which resulted in injuries and death. The man, P.V., was arrested on April 30 of this year after rear-ending another vehicle that had stopped at a traffic light. A pregnant woman in the other vehicle was injured in the crash and she later lost her child when it was delivered due to injuries. The injured woman was eight months pregnant; her child was delivered by an emergency cesarean but died a few days later. Chemical tests done on the implicated driver showed that he had been driving while under the influence of three drugs, a painkiller and prescription drugs for anxiety and insomnia.

The man now faces charges of DUI-related manslaughter, vehicular homicide in the death of the child, reckless driving causing serious bodily injury, DUI-related serious bodily injury, DUI property damage, and DUI. DUI manslaughter is charged as a second-degree felony in Florida punishable by up to 15 years in prison with a four-year minimum mandatory sentence. It also carries a lifetime driver's license revocation. DUI homicide also carries a prison term of up to 15 years. Reckless driving involving serious bodily injury is also charged as a felony in Florida. A Florida DUI causing bodily injury is charged as a felony carrying fines of up to $5,000 and up to five years in prison.

DUI Defense in Fort Myers, Florida

As seen in the case above, driving while under the influence of prescription drugs ordered by your doctor can lead to serious legal consequences, especially if you are involved in an accident. These impairing substances are now seen to be as dangerous as alcohol and growing more prevalent among the population. If convicted in such an offense, you will have a criminal record which can hamper your future as well as face prison time and huge fines.

The criminal defense firm of Brian L. Edwards, Esquire offers competent and experienced legal representation for anyone facing any type of DUI charge. Mr. Edwards also provides seasoned legal representation in all other types of criminal charges, from drug possession to domestic violence, theft crimes, sex crimes, violent crimes, and more. As a former Assistant State Attorney, he has extensive experience on both sides of the courtroom, which gives his client a unique advantage. To learn more about his qualifications and how he can help you after an arrest, contact the firm to schedule a free case consultation.