Each state has their own laws regarding driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs but in every state, it is a crime to operate a car while impaired. Though the rules may vary, they are similar from state to state, and it is always a driver’s responsibility to know what is legal and what is a violation wherever that driver is operating a car. As police in Florida have illustrated, their rules apply to famous celebrities just like they do to average citizens, something that singer Justin Bieber probably wishes were not true.
Teen pop star Justin Bieber has reportedly been arrested in Miami Beach this morning, according to the local police department in the Florida city. He is being charged with driving under the influence in what has been described as a staged drag race along a residential street.
Police reported that a yellow Lamborghini was racing a Ferrari when officers stopped both drivers. Reportedly other drivers had parked their SUVs in the area, blocking the street from through traffic to ensure the drivers would be able to race on a residential street. When officers approached the driver of the Lamborghini, they noted signs of impairment or intoxication and asked the driver to undergo a field sobriety test, which the driver reportedly failed. The driver was arrested and taken into police custody after the incident and has since been positively identified as Justin Bieber. The other driver, whose name has not been released, was also arrested and charged with driving under the influence. It is not clear whether either driver will face charges related to the drag race itself.
Bieber has made headlines for his driving in the past after several of his neighbors complained about Bieber driving through their neighborhood at a high rate of speed. Beiber lives in Calabasas, an upscale California community home to many in the entertainment industry as well as many current and former athletes. Though those reports have been investigated by police in California, this morning’s arrest is believed to be the first for Bieber.
Driving while under the influence may lead to traffic or criminal charges but that often is not the end of the legal trouble it brings. Many drivers who operate while impaired cause accidents or are involved in crashes, and if one of those accidents leaves a victim injured or killed, the victim or the victim’s family may seek compensation for their losses against the responsible driver.
These claims often go against the at-fault driver’s insurance policy but in the event there is not enough insurance or there is no insurance to pay on the claim, the claims may seek payment from the responsible driver personally for any and all damages that result from the crash. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer is the best way to learn about your rights and options following an accident.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., we believe that all victims deserve proper and adequate compensation for their injuries and we fight hard to make that a reality for each one of our clients. We offer all injury victims a free case consultation at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 and we are standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your call. At Abels & Annes, P.C., there is never a fee unless you win your case and there is no obligation on your part for taking advantage of the free consultation. Do not wait to see if a negligent driver will take responsibility for his or her actions. Call us today and let us help you get the relief you deserve.
Prior Blog Entry:
Despite Cold, Many Still Bicycling in Chicago, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published January 22, 2014.
Resource:
Justin Bieber arrested on suspicion of DUI, drag racing, by Alan Duke, CNN, published January 23, 2014.