Drivers in Florida often encounter traffic on the roadways. Whether it is due to rush hour, construction, an accident, weather or heavy traffic, the major roads across the state are hazardous. When drivers are stuck in traffic, this often causes stress and even road rage. Drivers are usually in a hurry to get to their destination and, when they are running late due to traffic, a driver could fail to properly pay attention. This could lead to a serious or fatal car accident affects numerous vehicles on the road.
A recent multi-vehicle collision resulted in the death of one in Lee County. Authorities were dispatched to the northbound lanes of U.S. 41 where the three-car accident occurred at around 5:15 p.m. Preliminary reports indicated that two vehicles involved in the crash were stopped in the northbound lanes due to heavy traffic. The third car involved was traveling north on the highway when they rear-ended a stopped vehicle. This resulted in that vehicle also colliding with the automobile stopped in front of them.
When emergency crews arrived to the scene of the accident, they discovered that the driver of the rear-ended car was unresponsive. The 50-year-old male driver was pronounced dead at the scene. It is not clear if the other two drivers were injured in the crash.
Investigation is still ongoing, and no charges have been filed at this time. Once investigation is complete, officers should be able to establish cause and liability. The driver at fault could face civil actions. The family members of the deceased could file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover compensation. The monetary award could cover funeral costs, lost wages and damages.
A serious accident could happen suddenly and could affect numerous victims. A simple act of negligence, such as speeding, traveling too close to another vehicle or texting while driving, could be the cause of a tragic crash. Those involved or affected by the accident could be left with several expenses on top of coping with the loss of a loved one or healing from the injuries suffered. Understanding whether they have a cause of action could help them alleviate these financial hardships, and help them move forward.
Source: NBC 2, “Parrish man killed in crash on US 41,” July 7, 2014
