DUI Suspected in Deadly Car Accident

News outlets are reporting that Charlotte V. Sowards, 18, had an illegal blood alcohol content at the hospital following a deadly car accident with Jason Plummer, 31.  Sowards BAC was allegedly 0.159 at the hospital, which is approximately twice the legal limit of 0.080.  This accident happened at approximately 9:37 p.m. on November 20, 2010.  It was reported the FDLE takes an average of 39 days turnaround time on blood or urine samples.  Plummer was killed instantly in the accident near the intersection of Wood Street and El Portal Drive.  His four passengers were sent to the hospital with serious injuries.  Police have alleged that Sowards ran two stops signs at a high rate of speed before crashing into the side of Plummer's vehicle.

This accident appears to now be confirmed as the result of intoxication.  Florida law authorizes punitive damages against an intoxicated driver.  Virtually all insurance policies exclude coverage for punitive damages.  This is a reason why a person may need to speak with an attorney to choose the wisest course of action in making a claim.  Plummer's family will need a probate set up in order to bring a claim.  The personal representative for Plummer's estate must bring the liability action on behalf of the estate and all survivors.  There are unique aspects of wrongful death cases.  Based on my experience, the damages suffered by the estate and the four injured passengers will likely far exceed any insurance coverage that does apply to this accident.  I would suggest that the injured might want to talk to a Central Florida car accident attorney about what can be done to minimize their liabilities and maximize what the injured person can receive because the injured people will have to live with their injuries for life even though they only have this one chance to make a claim for damages.  Moody Law represents clients involved in wrongful death and car accident injury cases.  If you have been in a Central Florida car accident or have a loved one lost or injured in a car accident, please contact a Central Florida personal injury or car accident lawyer for free advice.  A consultation with a personal injury or car accident lawyer is generally free.  Central Florida car accident lawyers at Moody Law are available to make home or hospital visits upon request.