A Marion County woman was recently killed in a tragic sequence of events in which she was struck by two cars traveling in the same direction.
Sharon Decker died in February when she was struck by the vehicles while crossing U.S. 301 near Summerfield. The drivers of both cars said they did not see Decker, who was walking in “an unlit area not designated for pedestrian crossing” according to Villages-News.
Decker was in the southbound lanes of 301 when she was struck by the first car, a Chevy 2500. The driver of that car pulled over to the side of the highway after the collision. A semi-truck behind the Chevy changed lanes when he saw the Chevy stopped. The truck then collided with Decker.
Decker, who was 56 years old, was pronounced dead at the scene of the accidents.
Legal Rights for People Injured in Car Accidents
The crash is unfortunately yet another reminder of the serious consequences that can come with being in a car accident. Whether you are a pedestrian, a driver or a passenger, accidents can and do happen. Some 2,400 people die in car accidents in Florida every year.
Anyone who is injured in a car accident has the right to seek compensation from those responsible for the crash. That includes money for medical bills, property damage, missed wages and pain, suffering and emotional distress. The family of a person who is killed in a crash can seek similar compensation for wrongful death.
To obtain money damages, you have to show that the person or entity responsible for the collision were negligent. Negligence is a legal term that refers to the failure to live up to what courts call a “duty of care.”
Drivers owe others a duty to operate their vehicles in a reasonably safe way. That means obeying traffic laws, maintaining safe speeds and adequately signaling turns. It also means refraining from dangerous behavior like drinking and driving or texting behind the wheel. A driver that does not live up to this responsibility is likely to be found negligent and legally liable for any injuries that happen as a result.
Consult a Villages Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car or other accident, you have the right to seek compensation from those responsible for the collision. It is vital that you have and experienced personal injury attorney in your corner.
Villages accident attorney Tim Babiarz has been fighting for people injured in jet ski and other accidents for more than two decades. He is committed to helping people get the full compensation available under the law.
Our office is conveniently located in the Villages. We are also proud to represent clients throughout the area, including in Ocala, Leesburg, Lady Lake, Wildwood, Summerfield and beyond. Call (352) 205-7559 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with a Villages accident attorney.
