Major Bee Ridge Road Crash Leaves One Dead in Sarasota

A fatal pedestrian-involved crash shut down part of Bee Ridge Road on Friday morning, leaving one person dead and prompting a heavy law enforcement response.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the crash occurred just after 7:30 a.m. between Sawyer Road and Beneva Road. Trooper Kenn Watson confirmed that the pedestrian was struck and pronounced dead at the scene.

Following the crash, Bee Ridge Road was fully shut down in the affected area to allow troopers to investigate. As of 9:10 a.m., one lane in each direction had reopened, but traffic remained significantly delayed through the morning commute. Drivers in the area were urged to seek alternate routes while the investigation continued.

What Authorities Know So Far

• Time of crash: Approximately 7:30 a.m.
• Location: Bee Ridge Road, between Sawyer Rd. and Beneva Rd.
• Victim: A pedestrian who died at the scene.
• Investigation: Florida Highway Patrol is examining the circumstances that led to the crash.

Details on the driver involved, potential causes, or whether citations will be issued have not yet been released.

Pedestrian-involved crashes are unfortunately common across Florida, which consistently ranks among the states with the highest pedestrian fatality rates in the nation. Common contributing factors include:

• Distracted or impaired driving
• Speeding in high-traffic corridors
• Poor visibility during early morning or nighttime hours
• Pedestrians crossing outside of designated crosswalks

Under Florida law, drivers have a duty to exercise caution and yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. When negligence leads to a pedestrian’s death, the at-fault driver may face both criminal penalties and civil liability.

Legal Options for Families After a Fatal Pedestrian Crash

When a loved one is killed in a pedestrian accident, their family may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. Compensation can include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of companionship and support
• Lost income and future earnings of the victim
• Emotional suffering of surviving family members

It is important for families to consult with an experienced wrongful death attorney as soon as possible to ensure evidence is preserved and deadlines are met.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we understand how devastating it is to lose a loved one suddenly in a preventable crash. Our attorneys are committed to helping Sarasota families navigate the legal process, hold negligent parties accountable, and pursue the justice they deserve.

If your family has suffered a loss in a pedestrian accident in Sarasota or anywhere in Florida, contact us today for a free, compassionate consultation.