Penalties for Crashing into a Building in Fort Myers

Driving while intoxicated is one thing, but causing property damages or injuries is another matter altogether. If you crash your vehicle into a building, you could face serious penalties. This is especially true if you were intoxicated, and if there were people inside the building at the time of the impact. If you face charges of this nature, it may be worth contacting a criminal defense lawyer in Fort Myers at your earliest convenience.

Driver Crashes into Fort Myers Home After Fleeing From Police

In June of 2024, various media sources reported that a truck had crashed into a Fort Myers home. Police say that the driver of the truck was seen driving the wrong way down a road before their pursuit. They strongly suspected that the driver was intoxicated, and the pursuit only lasted a few minutes before ending in a crash. After barreling into a private residence, the driver fled on foot. Police say that they are still searching for the suspect.

At least one teen was injured as a result of the impact. However, he was eventually released from a hospital, implying relatively minor injuries. After the crash, troopers and K9 units “swarmed” the scene in pursuit of the suspect. With no success, authorities are now asking anyone with further information to come forward.

If police eventually find the suspect, he/she will undoubtedly face numerous charges. Aside from a simple DUI, the defendant will likely face charges of eluding police – a felony with up to 15 years in prison if it involves reckless disregard for people or property. Since the defendant caused damage to a home and at least one injury, a second-degree felony charge is likely.

In addition, DUI causing injury is a third-degree felony in Florida with up to five years in prison. This is a separate offense in addition to eluding police. As a result, this defendant could face more than two decades in prison if he is ever caught by police.

Defenses to Eluding Police in Florida 

With all that being said, there are various defense strategies that may apply to eluding charges. First of all, you may have had no intent to flee. Although driving while intoxicated is a serious offense, it may also incapacitate you – to the point where you’re no longer aware of your surroundings. If you did not realize that police were chasing you, you may have had no intent to flee. Furthermore, police officers must engage their sirens and lights before engaging in pursuits. If they fail to do this, you may escape charges. In particular, this applies to undercover officers in unmarked police vehicles.

Find an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in Fort Myers 

If you’ve been searching for an experienced Fort Myers criminal defense lawyer, look no further than The Foley & Wilson Law Firm. Over the years, we have helped numerous defendants – including those accused of various traffic offenses. Although crashing into a building can increase DUI penalties, these penalties are far from guaranteed. Book a consultation today to discuss potential defense strategies.

Sources: 

nbc-2.com/article/fort-myers-home-boy-injured-after-crash/61125545

winknews.com/2024/06/17/truck-crashes-into-fort-myers-home/