An allegedly drunken golf cart driver’s recent trip to the bar in Jacksonville Beach took an unexpected turn when he slammed his vehicle into a watering hole’s front window.
William Halford was charged with DUI after he crashed his golf cart into Mango’s Beach Bar, according to Action News Jax. Three bar patrons suffered minor injuries in the collision, while Halford walked away unscathed.
The crash occurred at about 10:45 p.m. on a Sunday evening. Halford, who witnesses said had been drinking for several hours at the bar, appeared to be trying to move the golf cart by backing it out. He did not realize that the vehicle was shifted into drive, rather than reverse.
The Jacksonville Beach Police say Halford admitted to driving and crashing the vehicle. He was charged with DUI after failing a field sobriety test.
The Danger of Drinking and Driving
Halford isn’t the only person who has allegedly gotten behind the wheel of a golf cart while intoxicated. His accident is yet another reminder of the serious risk that comes with drinking and driving vehicles of all types.
The good news for anyone injured in a crash involving a drunk driver is that you have the right to seek compensation from those responsible for the accident. The money damages typically available in these cases includes compensation for medical and related costs, both those already incurred and those expected to be incurred in the future. Compensation for property damage, missed wages while recuperating and pain, suffering and emotional distress can also be sought in these cases.
To get that compensation, you typically have to prove that a drunk or other driver that caused the crash was negligent. Drivers owe others on the road what courts call a “duty of care” to operate their vehicles in a reasonably safe manner. A driver who decides to get behind the wheel while intoxicated has disregarded that duty and is likely to be found liable for any injuries that happen as a result.
Speak With a Villages Golf Cart Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in a golf cart or other accident, it is important to understand your rights and options. An experienced personal injury attorney can guide you through the legal process and help you build the strongest possible case for compensation.
Tim Babiarz is a Villages golf cart accident lawyer who has been fighting for people injured in a wide range of crashes for more than two decades. He is committed to helping people get the full compensation available under the law.
Our office is conveniently located in the Villages. We are also proud to represent clients throughout the area, including in Ocala, Leesburg, Lady Lake, Wildwood, Summerfield and beyond. Call (352) 205-7559 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with a Villages golf cart accident lawyer.
