Debra Bayer, 25, died of her injuries Monday at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, in Lakeland, FL. The driver, Tabaitha Marie Cain, 28, remains in the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, officials said.
According to the Lakeland Ledger, Cain was driving a 2005 Hyundai north on Lake Hollingsworth Drive in Lakeland, FL when the car veered and struck a tree.
Bayer wore her seat belt and her airbag deployed, but Cain was not wearing a seat belt and her airbag did not deploy, reports said.
Authorities do not yet know whether drugs or alcohol were factors in the crash, but a police officer noted Cain smelled strongly of alcohol, the report said.
According to DUI.com, the legal threshold for intoxication is typically a blood alcohol content of .08%. Ignition interlock devices are usually calibrated to disable the vehicle if a BAC of .02% is detected. As a result, people who are enjoying moderately consumed alcohol, like at a sporting event or a wedding, will be penalized.
Driving under the influence of alcohol and the chaos it creates on the road, are becoming an accepted fact of life for many Floridians. In fact, Florida is one of the most affluent states in the country, where driving under the influence is notorious, and every step is being taken to take control of this out-of-control, life-threatening situation here in the State of Florida.
According to Florida Statue 316.193, any person who is convicted of driving under the influence receives a fine of not less than $500, but not more than $1,000. It is until the third conviction, and so on, in a five year period, where higher fines are established and up to twelve months of imprisonment.
In some cases, Florida law entitles victims of drunk driving accidents to greater compensation. If you or a loved one is the victim of a drunk driving accident, contact Attorney Rivas immediately at 877-299-5539. Your consultation is free and there are no fees or costs unless you obtain a recovery.
