A teenage boy was killed in a tragic accident the evening of Sunday, August 2 just outside of Palatka in Putnam County. According to a report from the Florida Highway Patrol, the accident happened at approximately 9 p.m. near the intersection of Stokes Landing Road and Kid Lane.
The report states that a 14-year-old boy was walking south in the northbound lanes of Stokes Landing Road accompanied by his 12-year-old sister. Meanwhile, a 2002 Dodge Ram was traveling south and crossed over the centerline into the northbound lanes, directly in front of where the children were walking. The vehicle hit the 14-year-old boy, but the girl was able to avoid it. The boy later died from his injuries.
The driver of the Dodge apparently made no effort to stop after the accident, continuing to drive south. He later turned himself in at the Putnam County Jail.
Leaving the scene of a crash
Hit-and-run accidents are considered felonies in all U.S. states, and when these crashes result in injuries to other people, there are some serious criminal penalties involved. The driver of the truck could also possibly face a wrongful death claim from the family of the 14-year-old victim, as family members could argue that the driver’s negligence in crossing the centerline caused the death of the child. At this time, it is unclear whether the family intends to take any type of legal action.
When the reckless actions of another party cause injury or death to you or a loved one, be sure to seek the legal representation you need by working with the respected car accident lawyers at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh in Bradenton.