Four people, including two children, were injured in a high-speed crash on U.S. 19 near Harn Boulevard early Friday morning. The accident, caused by a DUI driver, closed the northbound lanes for hours.
What Happened: U.S. 19 DUI Crash
In the early hours of May 25, 2026, a severe accident occurred on U.S. 19 in St. Petersburg. The crash involved a speeding vehicle driven by Mario Mounes Rizk, who was allegedly under the influence. His vehicle collided with another car at high speed and subsequently hit a third vehicle stopped on the shoulder. Four individuals, including two children, suffered serious injuries, though they were not life-threatening. The incident closed northbound lanes for three hours while authorities conducted their investigation. For more details, see the IONTB report.
Who Is Liable for This Crash?
Driver Negligence
Mario Mounes Rizk is primarily liable for this crash due to driving under the influence and speeding, both of which are serious violations that contributed to the accident. His reckless actions endangered everyone on the road.
Your Legal Rights Under Florida Law
Victims of this crash have rights under Florida law to seek compensation for injuries. Florida's PIP (Personal Injury Protection) requirements, cited under Fla. Stat. § 627.736, mandate insurance coverage for medical expenses. Additionally, Fla. Stat. § 768.81 addresses comparative negligence, which could impact compensation if multiple parties are found at fault.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Victims of this crash may be entitled to various forms of compensation.
| Damage Type | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Medical bills and future care | $150000 to $500000 | Emergency, surgery, rehab, ongoing treatment |
| Lost wages and earning capacity | $50000 to $200000 | Past and future income loss |
| Pain and suffering | $200000 to $1000000 | Physical pain, emotional distress, trauma |
Critical Deadlines - Do Not Wait
It is urgent to act quickly as evidence can be lost, and witness memories can fade over time.
Legal Theories That Apply to This Crash
In this crash, negligence and dram shop liability may apply. Negligence is evident in the driver's actions, while dram shop liability could involve establishments serving alcohol to Rizk if they contributed to his intoxication.
7 Immediate Steps to Protect Your Rights
- Seek medical care immediately - Even if you feel fine, delayed injuries are common and gaps in treatment hurt claims.
- Obtain the FHP crash report number - Request the full report for official documentation.
- Photograph everything at the scene - Capture road markings, skid marks, vehicle positions, and injuries.
- Avoid speaking to the at-fault driver's insurance - Anything you say can be used to reduce your claim.
- Preserve your vehicle - Do not authorize repairs until inspected by a professional.
- Save all receipts and records - Keep documentation of all expenses related to the crash.
- Contact a personal injury attorney immediately - Your deadline is May 25 2028, and early action is crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sue after a DUI crash in St. Petersburg Florida?
Yes, if you are injured in a DUI crash, you can file a lawsuit against the responsible party. Florida law allows victims to seek compensation for injuries, lost wages, and other damages. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal options.
How much is a St. Petersburg car accident settlement worth in 2026?
The value of a car accident settlement in St. Petersburg varies based on factors like injury severity, medical expenses, and lost wages. Settlements can range significantly, and an attorney can provide a more accurate estimate based on your case specifics.
What if the at-fault driver had no insurance in Florida?
If the at-fault driver lacks insurance, victims can turn to their own uninsured motorist coverage if available. Florida law requires drivers to carry PIP, which can help cover initial medical costs regardless of fault.
How long does a Florida wrongful death lawsuit take?
Wrongful death lawsuits in Florida can take months to years, depending on case complexity. Factors like liability disputes, settlement negotiations, and court schedules impact the timeline. An experienced attorney can guide you through the process.
What is the statute of limitations for car accidents in Florida?
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Florida is two years from the accident date, as per Fla. Stat. § 95.11(4)(a). Failing to file within this period can void your right to compensation.
Should I accept the insurance company's first settlement offer?
It's generally advised not to accept the first settlement offer without consulting an attorney. Initial offers often undervalue the claim. An attorney can negotiate a fairer settlement on your behalf.
Does Florida have a cap on damages in car accident cases?
Florida does not impose a cap on compensatory damages in car accident cases, allowing victims to recover full economic and non-economic damages. However, punitive damages may be capped in certain circumstances.
What is comparative negligence and how does it affect my Florida car accident case?
Comparative negligence in Florida means if you are partially at fault, your compensation is reduced by your fault percentage. Fla. Stat. § 768.81 states that being over 50% at fault bars recovery.
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