A tragic two-vehicle crash on County Road 476 near Bushnell in Sumter County claimed the life of a 32-year-old Inverness man on Monday morning. Identified by troopers as the victim, the collision occurred around 7:45 a.m. when the Inverness man, driving an eastbound Chevrolet SUV, inexplicably veered into the westbound lane, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
Reports from the scene indicate that the SUV collided head-on with a westbound Nissan pickup truck, driven by a 37-year-old Groveland man, near SW 52nd Street. Despite emergency responders’ efforts, the Inverness man succumbed to his injuries at the scene, as confirmed by the FHP.
The Groveland man, sustaining serious injuries, was promptly transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment, according to an FHP crash report. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading to the fatal crash, while condolences pour in for the victim’s family and loved ones.
What to Do If a Loved One Is Killed or Injured in an Orlando Auto Accident
Losing a loved one in an auto accident is an overwhelming and devastating experience. During this challenging time, it’s essential to take steps that can help protect your legal rights and ensure your family receives the compensation it deserves. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the aftermath of such a tragedy, with support from Anthony-Smith Law.
Immediate Steps to Take After the Accident
- Secure the Accident Scene and Gather Information: Immediately following the accident, ensure the scene is secure to prevent further incidents. If possible, gather information from witnesses, take pictures of the scene, and obtain a copy of the police report. These documents will be crucial for any legal action.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel unharmed, it’s important to visit a doctor. Some injuries might not be immediately apparent, and having a medical record is essential for legal processes.
Understanding Your Legal Rights and Options
- Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney: Understanding your legal rights is crucial. Contacting a personal injury attorney can provide you with guidance tailored to your situation. Anthony-Smith Law specializes in helping families in Orlando, FL, navigate the complexities of auto accident claims. Our experienced team offers free consultations, ensuring you understand your options without any upfront cost.
- Make an insurance claim: Florida is a no-fault state, meaning everyone’s own insurance will pay their claim. Unless there was negligence, parties do not sue each other’s insurance, but rather they make demands of their own insurance companies. There may be death benefit coverage or a personal injury provision. Conversely, it may be necessary to sue the offending party’s insurance if there was significant negligence. An attorney can help you determine your best course of action.
- Consider Filing a Wrongful Death Claim: If your loved one was killed due to someone else’s negligence, you might be entitled to file a wrongful death claim. This claim can cover medical bills, funeral expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Our attorneys at Anthony-Smith Law can help determine if you have a valid claim and guide you through the legal process.
Financial Compensation Can Aid Your Recovery Process
- Seek Compensation for Economic and Non-Economic Damages: Compensation from a wrongful death claim can include economic damages like medical expenses and lost wages, as well as non-economic damages such as pain and suffering and loss of companionship. Understanding the full scope of what you’re entitled to is something our attorneys can help with.
- No Payment Unless We Win: At Anthony-Smith Law, we believe in supporting our clients through difficult times without the burden of financial strain. You will not pay any fees unless we win your case.
Why Choose Anthony-Smith Law for Your Auto Accident Claims?
- Experienced Legal Representation: With extensive experience in personal injury law, our team at Anthony-Smith Law is prepared to handle your case with the compassion and attention it deserves. We understand the local laws in Orlando, FL, and have a track record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients.
- We’re Here When You Need Us: Losing a loved one is hard enough. Dealing with legal issues can add to the stress. Let us take the burden off your shoulders. If you need guidance or wish to start the process of filing a claim, call us at 321-900-HELP (321-900-4357).
During such difficult times, having the right support and guidance is crucial. Anthony-Smith Law is here to help you every step of the way, ensuring that you focus on healing while we take care of the legal aspects.
