3 Killed After Vehicle Flees Police, Crashes

Driving requires following the rules of the road. When a motorist fails to do so and engages in dangerous behaviors, such as not stopping for police, it can unfortunately lead to tragic car accidents.

Sadly, this was recently the case in Florida. Three people were killed when a driver fled police and crashed into another vehicle. The fatal accident occurred on the morning of August 31 at Sunset Drive and Southwest 92nd Avenue.

A Range Rover was speeding on the Palmetto Expressway. After it exited onto Sunset Drive, a police officer tried to pull over the driver. The driver, however, failed to stop. It lost control and crashed into a Kia sedan. All three occupants of the Kia were killed. One was ejected from the vehicle due to the impact.

The driver of the Range Rover was taken to Kendall Regional Medical Center. Alcohol is believed to be a factor in the crash. Investigators are pursuing a DUI charge for the driver. The driver’s identity is unknown. 

Wrongful Death in Florida

Sadly, these types of accidents occur frequently. A death caused by someone else’s negligence or intentional tort is considered a wrongful death under Florida law. This includes car accidents, defective products, medical malpractice, and even crimes.

The personal representative, or executor, of the deceased person’s estate has two years to file a wrongful death claim against the negligent party. They must be able to prove the following:

• A person was killed.
• The death was caused by the party’s actions.
• The party’s actions were negligent or intentional.
• There are survivors who have suffered monetary damages due to the victim’s death.

The family of the deceased can claim various damages, such as:

• Medical and funeral expenses
• Lost wages and benefits
• Mental pain and suffering
• Loss of companionship and protection
• Loss of parental companionship, instruction, and guidance
• Loss of the support and services

In some cases, the family can also obtain punitive damages. However, these are not very common and only awarded in cases where the person’s actions were grossly negligent or intentional.

It’s important to know that a wrongful death lawsuit is a civil case and is separate from a criminal case. For example, in this case, whether or not the driver of the Range Rover is criminally charged with DUI, manslaughter, or some other crime, the families of the deceased victims can move forward with a civil case. They are independent of each other.

Seek Help for Your Car Accident Case 

When drivers don’t follow the rules of the road, they can cause fatal crashes. It’s always devastating when someone dies due to another person’s negligence.

Have you or a loved one been involved in a car accident? If so, the Dade City & Zephyrhills auto accident attorneys at Madonna Law Group can assess your case and help you obtain compensation for your damages. Schedule a consultation today by calling (800) 557-0411 or filling out the online form.

Source:

local10.com/news/local/2021/08/31/at-least-1-hospitalized-after-vehicle-crashes-into-pole-on-sunset-drive/