It happened again. Tampa Bay is known for our wrong-way drivers – in particular on the Howard Frankland Bridge.
On August 29th, around 1:30 am, a 22-year-old Sarasota man was driving under the influence as well as driving the wrong way for 13 miles on I-275/Howard Frankland Bridge. Additionally, while driving under the influence and going the wrong way, he hit four cars and caused debris that hit an additional six cars causing significant property damage per law enforcement officers.
About the Incident
The driver, Jason Arellano Martinez, admitted to having several margaritas with friends before getting into his car and driving the wrong way. When police pulled him over, he was reported to have slurred speech, glassy and watery eyes, a presence of strong alcohol odor, and was swaying. During his arrest, police also found a pipe and several small, sealed jars of marijuana in his car.
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Drunk Driving Charges
Martinez was booked into the Hillsborough County Jail but is now released on bail after posting the $2,000 bond. He is currently facing the following charges:
- Driving under the influence with property damage or personal injury
- Public use of marijuana by a qualified patient or caregiver
- Possession of cannabis less than 20 grams
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
DUI Defense
Tampa is well known for our wrong-way driving problem. You may have had a lapse in judgment and chosen to drive home after having a few drinks, but you can make the right choice now.
At Stechschulte Nell Law, our top-rated DUI defense law firm is ready to fight for you. If you have been charged with a drug crime or a DUI, let us work with you. We will aggressively defend your charges and mitigate the impact on your future. The consequences of a DUI are long-lasting. If you’ve been accused of drunk driving you need to speak with a defense attorney immediately.
Call us at 813-280-1244 and schedule your free DUI case consultation today. Our Tampa law office is open 24/7. Your case cannot wait.
