Civil suit brought against Tampa dentist accused of DUI manslaughter

CLEARWATER, Fla. - The Tampa dentist charged with two counts of DUI manslaughter for an October 30 car accident is facing a civil lawsuit from the family of one of the victims. 

Matthew Moye was specifically named in a lawsuit filed by Cindy Collins, the mother of 24 year old Kate Kohlier.  According to the lawsuit, it states Moye negligently and carelessly operated a vehicle in a manner that caused him to collide with Kate Kohlier while she was walking on a sidewalk.

The lawsuit also says Moye drove while voluntarily intoxicated and/or under the influence of a controlled substance and acted willful, wanton and with total disregard of the rights and interests of Kate Kohlier.

Matthew Moye's attorney, Stephen Romine, would not comment on the criminal or civil cases, but did say, "The entire incident is very sad and painful for everybody involved."

Attorney Tom Casey, who represents the Kohlier family, says it could take up to 2 years for this civil case to be resolved. 

In the meantime, he is investigating to see if more people will be added as defendants in the lawsuit.

The family of Doug Kozar, a second victim of the accident, say they have retained an attorney and are exploring their options.

The suit does not specify a certain amount of money the family is seeking.