A 54-year-old woman from Weston died in a crash Saturday evening, December 24, on Interstate 95 near the Port Orange Dunlawton Avenue exit. She was one of three people riding in a 2011 Hyundai SUV being driven by a 53-year-old man, also from Weston. According to a report by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), a 2001 Saturn made a lane change into the left lane heading southbound and hit the side of the Hyundai. The Saturn, as well as the Hyundai, both drifted off the highway and into the woods. The Hyundai overturned, and then the passenger side of the vehicle struck a tree, killing the female passenger. The Saturn, driven by a 56-year-old from Oak Hill, also hit a tree after hitting the Hyundai. The other two people in the Hyundai experienced minor injuries, but the Saturn driver is in Halifax Health Medical Center in critical condition. Charges are pending in this auto accident, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. This story in the Daytona Beach News-Journal does not say what time of day this auto accident occurred.
Our condolences go out to the families of all the individuals involved. Let’s pray that those hospitalized quickly recover.
Florida Legislature
Distracted driving remains a problem in Florida, and it is one of only 15 states where there is still no ban on texting or using a cell phone while behind the wheel. No doubt we will see another year of state lawmakers trying to change that. Every year, legislation ends up dying in committee and never heard. One measure introduced in 2012 will allow texting at a red light and dialing a number with a first offense bringing a $30 fine, which doesn’t sound like much of a deterrent. However, if the use of a cell phone results in a crash, there would be six points added to your license.
According to the AAA Foundation, 87 percent of drivers nationwide are in favor of some laws against texting while driving. The Florida Legislature convenes in January for 60 days.
If you have been involved in a car accident that was caused by the negligent actions of another motorist, the Volusia County car accident attorneys of Farah & Farah can help you obtain compensation for your injuries. Please call (800) 533-3555 for a free consultation.
Source: http://www.news-journalonline.com/breakingnews/2011/12/fatal-accident-victim-identified.html
