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72-Year-Old Woman Fatally Struck by Pickup Truck in Palm Beach County
A tragic pedestrian accident occurred early Monday morning, August 4, 2025, when a 72-year-old woman was struck by a pickup truck while crossing Winston Trails Boulevard in Lake Worth. The incident, reported by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO), resulted in the woman’s death despite emergency medical efforts.
According to the PBSO, Anna Wilczak was walking north on Winston Trails North shortly before 9:30 a.m. when she stepped off the curb to cross Winston Trails Boulevard. At the same time, a Ford pickup truck traveling in the opposite direction attempted to make a left turn onto Winston Trails Boulevard and struck Ms. Wilczak.
Emergency responders transported the 72-year-old woman to a local hospital, but she was pronounced dead approximately one hour later.
Legal Options After a Pedestrian Accident in Florida
Pedestrian accidents such as this highlight the critical importance of driver vigilance and pedestrian safety. In Florida, drivers have a legal duty to yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks or when they are crossing the road. Failure to do so can result in serious injury or death, and may give rise to legal claims for damages.
Families of fatal pedestrian accident victims may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim in Florida.
Wrongful death claims are civil lawsuits filed on behalf of the deceased’s surviving relatives to recover damages resulting from the loss of life caused by negligence or wrongful conduct. In cases involving fatal pedestrian accidents, these claims are often complex and require careful navigation of Florida’s legal framework.
Florida law permits specific family members to file wrongful death claims, typically including:
- Surviving spouse
- Children
- Parents
- Other relatives who were financially dependent on the deceased
The statute limits who may bring a claim, and it is essential to identify the proper parties promptly.
Building a strong wrongful death case begins with a thorough investigation, including:
- Obtaining police and accident reports
- Collecting witness statements and surveillance footage
- Reviewing medical records and autopsy reports
- Determining liability, such as whether the driver failed to yield, was distracted, or violated traffic laws
Expert accident reconstructionists and medical professionals may be consulted to establish causation and fault.
Florida law requires wrongful death claims to be filed within two years from the date of the victim’s death, as stipulated under The Florida Wrongful Death Act. Missing this deadline generally bars the claim, regardless of its merits.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident resulting in injury or death, it is essential to seek the advice of an experienced personal injury attorney. Legal professionals can help gather crucial evidence, advocate for your rights, and pursue compensation to assist with medical bills, funeral costs, and other damages.
For a free consultation, call us at (305) 638-4143 or reach out through our online contact form. We’re here to help you seek justice and support during this difficult time.