A man Andrew Jones who was allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol rear-ended a Sheriff Don Eshinger's pickup and then fled the scene in his 2004 Dodge. At the time of the collision, Eshinger got out of his vehicle and approached the other driver indicating that the driver had to pull over to the side of the road. The driver did not stop but instead passed Eshinger's truck and sped away. Jones finally stopped and was arrested with the assistance of other deputies who Eshinger had contact via his cell phone. The report indicates Jones refused to take a breath-alcohol test. He has been charged with DUI and leaving the scene of an accident.
Under Florida DUI law, a Polk County driver or one anywhere in Florida is required to remain at the scene of an accident and render aid if necessary. This provision is strict and the penalties for violation said Polk County DUI lawyer John Musca. If a driver who is involved in an accident where someone is injured does not stop and render aid they can be charged with a felony. Where an accident results in the death of someone and the driver fails to remain at the scene, the prosecutor can charge a felony of the first degree. A felony hit and run where someone is killed can result in a maximum term of 30 years in state prison and a ten thousand-dollar fine. Moreover, if the driver who is involved in the hit and run resulting in the death to another is driving under the influence of alcohol Florida DUI law requires a minimum mandatory term of two years in state prison.
Given the extremely serious consequences of leaving an accident scene, especially where someone has been hurt or killed, it is imperative that the driver remains at the scene of an accident. If a driver is accused of leaving the scene of such an accident in Polk County, it is imperative to immediately seek legal advice.
