Driver Allegedly Texting Before Fatal Accident

Accident Leads To Cascade Of Injuries

According to the prosecution, the driver responsible for the death and injury of multiple victims was texting and high on prescription drugs when the accident occurred.

On Tuesday, April 19^th, at approximately 4:00 p.m., the defendant was allegedly driving his Ford pickup truck along U.S. 192, heading eastbound. The 27-year old man is reported to have been looking down at his phone and attempting to type a text, which distracted him from noticing the red light ahead of him on approach to the intersection with Wickham Road. According to the report made by the Florida Highway Patrol, he was moving at 45 miles per hour when he collided into the rear of a Chrysler PT Cruiser waiting at the red light. This started a chain reaction that damaged four additional vehicles, leaving 8 people injured.

The driver of the PT Cruiser, a 53-year old woman, died almost a month later from injuries sustained in the crash.

Driver Faces Multiple Felony Counts

Troopers with the Florida Highway Patrol allege that the defendant appeared noticeably intoxicated, believing him to be overdosed on some sort of medication. He was cited for multiple counts of driving under the influence, although troopers failed to take a blood sample, leading to the prosecution dropping those charges. Eventually, the FHP admitted that it failed to perform a complete homicide investigation at the time of the accident, as none of the victims were believed to have been seriously injured.

The man was eventually charged with one count of vehicular homicide, as well as three counts of reckless driving causing serious injury. He is also charged with several misdemeanor counts of reckless driving.

If convicted of the homicide charge, he could face up to 15 years in prison, as well as five years for each other felony count.

A Personal Injury Attorney Can Help

If you have lost a loved one to the reckless behavior of another, it is possible to seek justice and ensure the liable party is held responsible. At Layman Law Firm, a Palm Bay personal injury lawyer is ready to guide you through the legal process with compassion and dedication.

To discuss your case, contact a Palm Bay wrongful death attorney right away.