Intoxicated Driver Causes Fiery Crash in Tampa
Intoxicated drivers are capable of causing serious damage in Tampa, and these situations become much more dangerous when fire is involved. A recent crash in Tampa shows how destructive impaired drivers can be, and this incident resulted in a fiery accident that proved fatal. What can you do after a fiery crash in Tampa? What if a drunk driver killed someone you love? These are questions you might want to ask an experienced auto accident lawyer in Tampa.
Driver and Passenger Pulled From Burning Vehicle After Crash
Police say that at about 2:30 AM, an intoxicated woman was driving a van on the Selmon Crosstown Expressway when she crashed into a concrete median. A fire broke out, and officers arrived at the scene to find the occupants still inside. They pulled both the driver and a passenger out of the vehicle, and the injured pair were quickly transported to a nearby hospital by first responders.
However, the passenger did not survive their injuries. It seems that this individual suffered much more serious injuries than the driver, who escaped with relatively minor ailments. Officers managed to test the driver’s BAC level and found that it was .200 – more than twice the legal limit. As a result, the authorities arrested the driver and charged her with DUI manslaughter – a felony.
It seems that this was a single-vehicle crash, and no other cars were involved. It is not clear why the driver of the van veered into the concrete barrier, but speed and intoxication were clearly major factors.
Can a Passenger Sue a Drunk Driver?
Yes, a passenger can sue their own driver if they crash the vehicle and cause injuries. A driver owes their passenger a legal duty of care, which means they must take reasonable steps to protect the passenger from harm. Drinking behind the wheel is a clear breach of duty, and it endangers everyone in the vehicle.
If the crash proved fatal, the family of the passenger may be able to take legal action against the driver. This is called a “wrongful death claim,” and it can provide compensation for things like funeral costs, lost future income, and unpaid medical bills. Note that medical debt may be “inherited” by the remaining family members, and emergency care after car accidents can be very expensive.
Can a Tampa Auto Accident Lawyer Help After a DUI Crash?
A Tampa auto accident lawyer may be able to help after a DUI crash. These incidents can cause catastrophic injuries, especially if a fire breaks out. Fiery crashes can lead to disfiguring burns, smoke inhalation, and permanent disabilities. Unfortunately, they can also be fatal – and relatives may want to pursue justice on behalf of their loved ones. Whether you are suffering from injuries or grieving the loss of a loved one, Anderson & Anderson can help. Contact us today to get started with an action plan.
Sources:
tampabay.com/news/crime/2025/04/14/car-fire-crash-selmon-today/
wfla.com/news/hillsborough-county/dui-driver-charged-in-fiery-tampa-crash-that-killed-passenger-hcso/
