Fatal Wrong-Way ATV Crash in Nassau County Involving 14-Year-Old Driver Leaves Motorcyclist Dead

A tragic and unusual accident unfolded Sunday afternoon in Nassau County, Florida, when a 14-year-old boy operating an ATV on the wrong side of an unmarked dirt road collided with a motorcycle, killing the 65-year-old rider, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).

The crash occurred at approximately 2:50 p.m. on Mulberry Landing Road West, a rural, unpaved road in Hilliard. FHP reports that the 14-year-old driver of a Polaris ATV was heading southbound in the northbound lane—effectively driving against traffic—when he struck a motorcycle ridden by a 65-year-old Hilliard man.

The ATV collided with the left side of the motorcycle, causing catastrophic injuries. The motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene, and troopers noted that he was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. The teen on the ATV suffered minor injuries, but was not transported to the hospital. Authorities also reported that the teen was not wearing a seatbelt, as required by law for certain ATV use.

The Florida Highway Patrol has not released the identities of those involved. An investigation into the crash is ongoing, and it is not yet clear whether any charges will be filed.

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are powerful machines that are not meant for use on public or shared roads, especially by children. In Florida, it is illegal for minors under 16 to operate an ATV without wearing a helmet and eye protection. Florida law also prohibits ATVs from being used on paved public roads except under specific circumstances—none of which applied here.

Wrong-way collisions are among the most dangerous types of traffic accidents. Though they are less frequent than other crashes, they are far more likely to result in death or serious injury.

In this case, a young driver operating an ATV in the wrong direction on a narrow, unmarked road created a recipe for disaster. Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable in collisions because they lack the protection afforded by cars and trucks. Even at lower speeds, a direct impact—like the one described by FHP—can be fatal.

Can the Family of the Victim File a Wrongful Death Claim?

Yes. Even though the ATV was driven by a minor, wrongful death claims in Florida may still be pursued against the child’s legal guardians or parents under certain circumstances.

According to Florida Statutes § 768.19, when a person’s death is caused by the “wrongful act, negligence, default, or breach of contract or warranty of any person,” the surviving family members may bring a wrongful death lawsuit. In this case, if it is determined that:

• The parents allowed the 14-year-old to operate the ATV unsupervised,
• The ATV was improperly used on a public/shared road, or
• Negligent behavior contributed to the death of the motorcyclist

the family may be entitle to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

Important Legal Considerations

• Parental Liability: Parents can be held liable under Florida law for the negligent or reckless actions of their minor children, particularly if they provided access to the vehicle or failed to supervise its use.
• Insurance Coverage: Many homeowners’ or recreational vehicle insurance policies contain exclusions for off-road accidents, especially involving unauthorized drivers or illegal road use. This may complicate a claim, but not necessarily prevent one.
• Comparative Fault: If the motorcyclist was not wearing a helmet, as noted in this incident, the defense may argue partial fault. However, helmet use does not excuse the teen’s wrong-way driving, and liability could still rest primarily with the ATV operator.

If your loved one was killed in a motor vehicle or ATV accident caused by another person’s negligence, the Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm is here to help. We offer compassionate, experienced legal representation for families seeking justice after a tragic loss. Call (305) 638-4143 for a free consultation.