Last month, just days after Christmas, a Titusville man crossing the street in his wheelchair was tragically hit and killed by a drunk driver. The innocent victim, 32-year-old Michael Leininger, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver, 48-year-old Thomas Pitt, was arrested and charged with DUI manslaughter and DUI property damage.

In June 2008, Derrika Tacara King was riding with a drunk driver in a 2005 Nissan Maxima. The driver of the Nissan crossed the center median and crashed head-on with a 1995 Toyota driven by Jean Fontus. Derrika, the passenger, died on the roadside as paramedics fought to free the victims just 12 days before her 18th birthday. The driver of the Toyota suffered injuries that included a broken arm and severe soft tissue injuries. The intoxicated driver suffered a broken leg and other injuries, but has been charged with DUI manslaughter. Police calculated he was going nearly 80 mph in a 35 mph zone. Tests later showed the intoxicated driver’s blood alcohol level at .107 and .109, above the .08 minimum for DUI.

According to MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving), and the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, during 2008, 875 people in the State of Florida were killed in drunk driving crashes. From 1998 to 2008 (a ten year span), 9,785 victims were killed in drunk driving crashes. 108,853 people have 3 or more DUI convictions and 13,540 have five or more DUI convictions in Florida.

The senseless consequences of a drunk driver are profound, life-altering and tragically, are often fatal. For the victims and their loved ones, it’s important to know what your rights are and where to turn for answers. An attorney can help you, and your family, face the legal issues and fight for the compensation you are entitled to. Don’t face it alone.

As we enter the New Year, remember to keep you and your loved ones safe! Always wear your seatbelt, drive without distractions, be aware of the drivers around you, and don’t hesitate to pull over and notify law enforcement if you suspect an intoxicated driver. The safety of the members of our community is worth the time!

 For our recent blog on Holiday Drunk Driving, click Here.

 We offer free consultations for injured victims. Call us at (407) 644-5263 to speak to one of our attorneys.