All drivers in Florida must remain aware of other traffic on the road and act responsibly behind the wheel. Even a brief lapse in judgment can cause an accident that severely injuries or kills other drivers and their passengers. Such seems to be the case in a recent accident in Gifford that claimed the life of a young man.
The accident and aftermath
Around 6:48 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 17, a 24-year-old man was driving his Lexus sedan along U.S. 1. As he approached 45th Street, a 63-year-old man driving a van from Vero Beach attempted to turn left onto 45th Street. The van driver failed to yield the right of way and collided with the Lexus.
Authorities pronounced the 24-year-old dead at the scene. The driver of the van was transported to a local hospital with traumatic injuries. Neither vehicle contained passengers, and officers reported that neither driver was wearing a seatbelt. Troopers with the Florida Highway Patrol are continuing to investigate.
Wrongful death
As they try to deal with their loss, the surviving family of the young man may pursue civil action against the van driver for the untimely death of their loved one. They may file a wrongful death suit against the driver as well as anyone else who has an ownership interest in his van. The process of filing suit and seeking compensation is complex and challenging, and affected parties will need to work closely with an experienced personal injury attorney in Florida for help throughout the process.
