A 39-year-old Sanford man has been charged with DUI manslaughter and other charges in connection with a fatal auto accident in March 2012. Tests confirmed that the man was under the influence of drugs when he caused the fatal Lake County auto accident that claimed the life of a three-year-old girl. Toxicology tests revealed that the man was under the influence of Xanax and Oxycodone on March 13 at levels that impaired his ability to operate his vehicle.
Florida Highway Patrol troopers report that the man was driving northbound on County Road 437 near State Road 44 when he veered into the southbound lanes and struck a Jeep, injuring the driver. He then collided with a Chrysler PT Cruiser carrying the victim and her mother, killing the girl and seriously injuring her mother. After troopers arrived at the accident scene, they noticed that the suspect was sleepy, dazed and acting lethargic, which led them to believe that he was under the influence of drugs. They took a blood sample, and the tests confirmed their suspicions of impairment. The man was then taken into custody. In addition to DUI manslaughter charges, the man also faces charges of DUI causing bodily injury, DUI causing property damage and reckless driving.
It’s no secret that our state has a serious prescription drug abuse problem. Legislators have recently passed several laws, which make it harder for people to “shop” for doctors who write prescriptions for OxyContin, Xanax and other painkillers in an effort to reduce Florida’s reputation as a “pill mill.” The people who abuse prescription medication and then get behind the wheel can be held liable for the damages they cause just like drunk drivers.
If you or a family member have been injured in an accident caused by an impaired driver and want to speak with an Orlando drugged driving accident lawyer, call James O. Cunningham today at 800-425-2004. Mr. Cunningham has a proven record of success helping clients receive compensation from impaired drivers and their insurance companies, and he may be able to help you as well. Before you sign anything offered by the at-fault driver’s insurer, make sure to contact experienced Orlando personal injury attorney James O. Cunningham to protect your right to seek damages. He has law offices conveniently located throughout Central Florida, where he can meet with you to discuss your case. Call today.
James O. Cunningham
Since 1977, personal injury lawyer James Cunningham has provided effective legal advocacy to people who are injured through the negligent actions of another person or entity throughout the Central Florida area. He fights to obtain recoveries for his clients’ physical and emotional pain and suffering and pursues his clients’ personal injury cases with a commitment to excellence and impeccable preparation.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a vehicle accident, call toll-free at 1-888-FLA-Auto (1-888-352-2886).
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