Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Attorney Blog
A recent car accident in Suburban West Pam Beach just off Interstate 95 sent three people to St. Mary’s Medical Center after the vehicle exited onto 45th street and hit a panhandler. According to The Palm Beach News Post, officials with the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) and West Palm Beach Fire Rescue were called out to the scene shortly after 2:00 p.m. The exit ramp was closed for investigation after the accident.
The driver who was involved in the wreck was reportedly in his 30s and was operating a Ford SUV. He was exiting I-95 and drove into the median of 45th Street. His vehicle struck a panhandler in his 20s. The panhandler was seriously injured, according to Sgt. Kevin Strickland.
Our West Palm Beach car accident lawyers understand that the SUV landed on its side in front of the Days Inn after striking the panhandler. Another panhandler that was standing near the victim was able to avoid the accident. He was not hit. After the accident, the SUV driver tried to flee the scene, but the unharmed panhandler “tackled” him before he could get away.
Both panhandlers and the SUV driver were transported to St. Mary’s. The driver has submitted a blood sample for testing. Results determining if he was impaired at the time of the accident have not been yet released.
According to Lt. Tim Frith, spokesman with the FHP, it is likely that the driver will be charged with hit-and-run leaving the scene of an accident. If the blood results conclude he was impaired at the time of the accident, he will also be charged with driving under the influence.
Accidents in the area aren’t an uncommon sight. I-95 in Palm Beach County has been ranked as one of the deadliest roadways in the county by AllStays Travel. Over the last 5 years, nearly 150 people have died along this roadway.
Here are some Q&As to help you to help make I-95 safer for everyone.
What’s the safest way to exit the interstate? As you exit on an exit ramp, you want to make sure that you slow down to a safe exit speed. Generally, suggested exit speed signs are posted along the exit roadway. Make sure you meet this reduced speed limit because many exit ramps make sharp turn and quick stops. Slowing down will help you to maintain control of your vehicle. Losing control of your vehicle can easily cause a rollover on these roadways.
What should I do if I miss my exit? Never back up if you miss an exit. Never stop in a lane and try to figure out your next move. Just go to the next exit. I may take a few minutes more, but it’s your safest bet. Turning around can cost you a ticket, a huge fine and potentially a fatal accident.
If you or someone in your family has been injured in a car accident in West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Wellington or elsewhere in South Florida, contact Freeman, Mallard, Gonzalez & Sharp to a free consultation to discuss your rights. Call 1-800-561-7777.
More Blog Entries:
Woman Killed in Recent Miami Bus Stop Accident, South Florida Injury Lawyers Blog, January 10, 2012
Fatal Pedestrian Accident in Fort Lauderdale after Driver’s Car Breaks Down, South Florida Injury Lawyers Blog, January 7, 2012