Witnesses allege reckless driving caused Panama City car accident

On Behalf of | Sep 12, 2014 | Car Accidents

Motor vehicle accidents cause loss and disruption to the lives of everyone involved. It’s just a matter of to what degree. Compensation may be available to help with expenses and recovery, but insurance companies aren’t usually eager to send a check. For victims and survivors of fatal car accidents, the need to hold responsible parties accountable is often more important to their emotional recovery.

The family of a Panama City woman is dealing with such a loss now. Florida Highway Patrol reports the 31-year-old was killed at the intersection of Beach Drive and Upas Street by a Chevy S-10 truck. According to reports, the pickup allegedly ran a stop sign and t-boned the passenger side of a Mercedes-Benz convertible. The victim was rushed to a local hospital, but didn’t survive.

The police report their investigation includes several witness accounts from the scene. Most agree the 23-year-old was driving recklessly and speeding as he tore through the intersection. Reports are he had run the two preceding stop signs as well, traveling in excess of three times the posted speed limit of 25 mph. The defendant, now charged with vehicular homicide, maintains he was driving about 40 mph when the crash happened. He and his passenger were treated for minor injuries.

The investigation of the accident continues, but with several witnesses corroborating each other’s accounts, there will likely be conclusive findings by the police. For the family of the victim, this determination of fault can help as they consider seeking compensation for her loss.

With strong support and skilled negotiations, an insurance company settlement may be available in this case. But survivors are also entitled to seek damages for pain and suffering, personal loss of a loved one, lost earning potential, funeral and medical expenses – monies it may take a trial to deliver. Either way, handling the challenges ahead with a trusted advocate to help can be a sound choice.

Source: The News Herald, “FHP: Driver in fatal crash driving recklessly, witnesses said” Zack McDonald, Sep. 08, 2014

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