A 77-year-old Villages woman recently died after being hit by a car, the latest example of the safety hazards facing pedestrians in the area.
The woman was walking near Lake Sumter Landing just after 7:00 a.m. when she was struck by a Toyota Corolla, Villages News reports. She reportedly was trying to cross Old Mill Run, east of Buena Vista Boulevard.
The woman was taken to a local hospital, where she died of injuries related to the accident.
A 23-year-old Leesburg woman who was driving the car remained at the scene. Witnesses said the sun may have played a factor in the crash by reducing visibility.
The tragic crash came less than one month after a 71-year-old man was mowed down on County Road 25 near Lake Weir in Marion County. Last year, a 52-year-old Summerfield man died after being hit by a car while crossing U.S. 27/441 near UF Health-The Villages Hospital.
More than 10,000 pedestrian accidents occurred last year throughout Florida, killing some 790 people across the state, according to data from Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The total number of crashes and fatalities increased slightly from a year earlier.
More than 400 people have died in pedestrian collisions across the state through August of this year. That tally includes four deaths in Lake County, 11 fatalities in Marion County, and three deaths in Sumter County.
Compensation for Wrongful Death After a Fatal Accident
Anyone who has been injured in a car crash or other accident in The Villages or across Florida has the right to seek compensation from those responsible for the crash. Similarly, certain family members of a person who is killed in an accident can also ensure that those responsible are made accountable for their actions by suing for wrongful death.
The compensation available in wrongful death cases includes money for the loss of the deceased person’s earnings and companionship, as well as for mental anguish and suffering, medical, and funeral expenses.
There is no amount of money that can ever undo a fatal car accident or replace a loved one killed in a crash. Compensation can, however, help ease some of the financial burden that often comes with losing a family member.
State law limits wrongful death claims to the deceased person’s spouse, children, parents, and certain other blood relatives, depending on the circumstances.
To get compensation, you have to be able to prove fault. Wrongful death claims are typically based on negligence, a legal theory that holds people and entities responsible when they do not live up to a certain “duty of care.”
Car and truck drivers, motorcyclists, and others operating vehicles in Florida have a duty to do so in a reasonably safe manner. That means complying with traffic laws and refraining from dangerous behavior, such as driving while drunk or drowsy or using a cell phone.
A motorist who does not live up to this responsibility is likely to be found negligent and legally responsible for any crashes that result.
Speak With a Villages Wrongful Death Attorney
If you have lost a loved one to a fatal accident, it is vital to seek the advice of an experienced injury attorney. Villages wrongful death attorney Tim Babiarz has been fighting for people and families across the community for more than two decades.
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 wrongful death attorney.
