Tampa Bay Injury Attorney Blog
An accident on Monday morning reportedly resulted in one passenger death and one driver injury, according to the police.
The crash occurred shortly after 11 a.m. at the intersection of N. Dale Mabry Highway and W. South Avenue, involving two vehicles.
After being transported to a nearby hospital, a female passenger in one of the cars passed away. A male driver in the same vehicle was receiving medical attention.
There were no injuries to the driver of the second car.
When we think of car accidents, our minds often jump to the drivers. Their responsibilities, choices, and actions control our primary concerns. Yet, passengers—who have no control over the vehicle—can face equally severe consequences.
According to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS), of the 42,939 fatalities from motor vehicle crashes in 2021, 26,585 were passenger car occupants (63%). Being a passenger in a car accident can result in a variety of injuries, ranging from small scrapes and bruises to serious, life-altering conditions such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, or even wrongful death. The physical recovery process can be long and arduous, often accompanied by chronic pain and disability.
Emotionally, the impact can be just as devastating. Passengers may struggle with anxiety, PTSD, and a lingering fear of traveling in vehicles. The emotional scars can affect their relationships, work, and overall quality of life.
Families of deceased passengers can file wrongful death claims against the at-fault driver, whether it is the driver of the vehicle the passenger was in or another involved driver. These claims can cover medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering and loss of companionship.
The deceased passenger’s family can claim compensation through the insurance policies of the drivers involved. This may include liability insurance, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and personal injury protection (PIP). An experienced attorney can help navigate the legal process, ensuring that surviving family members receive fair compensation.
The death of a passenger in a car crash is a heartbreaking event with comprehensive consequences. While no amount of compensation can replace a lost loved one, seeking justice and accountability can provide some measure of solace for grieving families. If a loved one has been killed as a passenger in a car crash in Tampa, our Hillsborough County Wrongful Death Lawyers at Whittel & Melton are here to help. We can also help with any passenger or driver injuries from a car accident. Give us a call anytime at 813-221-3200 or contact us online for a free consultation.