Recently, a 19-year-old woman was killed in a two-car accident in Tampa that also injured others. The accident took place around 7:50 p.m. at Dale Mabry Highway and North Lakeview Drive. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, David Dario Cruz, 20, of Tampa was driving south on the highway in the left turn lane onto North Lakeview Drive.

The police report states that a 2006 Nissan was traveling northbound in the opposite direction on the Mabry highway when Mr. Cruz turned left into the path of the oncoming Nissan. The resulting crash sent both vehicles spinning into the northeast corner of the intersection. The driver and passengers inside of the Nissan were from Land O’ Lakes.

A 19-year-old passenger inside the Nissan was declared dead at the scene, and the driver of the vehicle was taken to St. Joseph’s hospital with critical injuries. The names of the people injured and killed have not been released, pending the family notification. Mr. Cruz only suffered minor injuries in the accident and was not taken to the hospital.

As of now, the Highway Patrol does not believe that drugs or alcohol played a role in the crash. Charges are currently pending against Mr. Cruz for his role in the accident.

Florida Car Accidents

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, there were 316,943 car accidents across the state in 2013. Of those, a total of 2,402 people were killed and thousands more were injured. Turning left into oncoming traffic is one of the more common causes of car accidents when alcohol or drugs do not play a factor in the crash. Other common causes of car crashes in Florida include:

  • Driving under the influence;
  • Distracted driving;
  • Texting while driving;
  • Speeding;
  • Tailgating too close to other vehicles;
  • Failure to obey traffic signals;
  • Failure to yield the right of way;
  • Drowsy driving;
  • Driving too fast in adverse weather conditions;

…and other negligent or reckless driving habits that can lead to accidents on the Florida roadways.

Compensation for Car Accidents

Many victims of car accidents are unaware of what damage can be compensated following a crash. Typically, damages for a car accident include medical bills, lost wages, disability payments, rehabilitation, property damage, scarring and disfigurement, pain and suffering, loss of consortium, loss of enjoyment of life, emotional distress, wrongful death, and funeral costs. Compensation can come from the insurance company, the other people involved in the accident, and any other parties that may share liability for the crash.

Contact a Tampa Attorney Now

It only takes an instant for a car accident to cause serious and lasting damage. If you or someone that you know has been injured in a car accident, let the experienced attorneys at Reed & Reed help. From our office in Brandon, we help clients in Tampa, New Tampa, Plant City, East Hillsborough County and throughout the state of Florida. Contact Reed & Reed for a free consultation.