I Crashed Into a Building in Lee County: What Are the Consequences?

People lose control of their vehicles for all kinds of reasons, and sometimes these incidents lead to collisions with buildings. But is crashing into a building a crime in Lee County? This is something you might be wondering after an incident at a parking lot or strip mall. Regardless of what police have told you, it may make sense to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney in Lee County for further guidance.

Lee County Man Faces Various Consequences for Crashing into Gym 

In February of 2025, a man in Lee County faced numerous charges after crashing into a building. The incident began when the defendant allegedly approached a man sitting in a van at a parking lot. A verbal altercation occurred, and the defendant reportedly left in the van and left the owner behind. The defendant did not get very far, as he crashed the vehicle into a nearby gym.

Law enforcement then surrounded the scene and deployed K-9 units – soon finding the defendant hiding in a cluster of bushes. Officers took the man into custody, charging him with carjacking, DUI, DUI causing property damage, and leaving the scene of a crash. This gives you some idea of the most serious charges associated with crashing into buildings in Florida.

Crashing Into a Building Is Not a Crime in Florida 

With that being said, the simple act of crashing into a building is not a criminal offense in Florida. If this was truly an accident, you have nothing to worry about. Perhaps your vehicle malfunctioned prior to the incident, or maybe you mistook the gas pedal for the accelerator while parking (a surprisingly common error). At the very worst, you might face a charge of reckless driving – especially if you displayed a wanton disregard for public safety before the collision.

Reckless driving may not lead to any jail time in Florida – especially if it is your first offense. Still, you might want to fight this charge – as it would add four points to your license if you admit guilt. An experienced defense attorney may be able to help you challenge this allegation and point out that the collision was an honest mistake.

Avoid Fleeing the Scene

 If you crashed into a building in Lee County, it makes sense to remain at the scene until the authorities arrive. Although this might seem embarrassing, a hit-and-run is a relatively serious offense in Florida – even if you merely caused property damage with no injuries.

Can a Lee County Defense Attorney Help Me? 

A Lee County defense attorney may be able to help if you’re facing criminal consequences for crashing into a building. While getting into a single-vehicle accident is not a criminal offense in Florida, you may face additional penalties for injuring others, being intoxicated, endangering children, or fleeing the scene. To defend yourself against these allegations, consider speaking with The Foley & Wilson Law Firm today.

Sources: 

winknews.com/2025/02/26/caught-on-camera-man-arrested-for-crashing-stolen-van-into-lee-county-gym/

flhsmv.gov/driver-licenses-id-cards/driver-license-suspensions-revocations/points-point-suspensions/