16-Year-Old Boy Killed in ATV Crash in Levy County

A tragic ATV crash in Levy County claimed the life of a 16-year-old boy from Morriston on Friday afternoon, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The fatal incident occurred the day after Christmas, underscoring the dangers associated with all-terrain vehicle use—particularly among young riders.

Troopers say the crash happened around 4:15 p.m. on Southeast 160th Avenue near Southeast 22nd Place.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the teen was traveling northbound on Southeast 160th Avenue while operating a Honda Pioneer ATV. As he attempted to make a left turn near Southeast 22nd Place, the ATV overturned.

The crash caused the teen to be ejected from the vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene. No other vehicles were reported to be involved.

FHP has not released additional details regarding helmet use, speed, or whether roadway or terrain conditions contributed to the crash. The investigation remains ongoing.

ATVs are often marketed as recreational vehicles, but they carry serious risks, especially for children and teenagers. Unlike passenger vehicles, ATVs:

• Lack seat belts and enclosed protection
• Have a high center of gravity, making rollovers common
• Are difficult to control during turns
• Offer limited stability on paved or uneven roadways

According to safety experts, rollover accidents and ejections are among the leading causes of fatal ATV injuries—particularly when minors are involved.

Even when a crash appears to involve a single vehicle, liability may still exist. A thorough investigation may reveal contributing factors such as:

• Mechanical defects or design flaws in the ATV
• Inadequate safety warnings or instructions
• Improper supervision or negligent entrustment
• Dangerous roadway or property conditions
• Failure to follow youth ATV safety regulations

Manufacturers, property owners, or other responsible parties may be held accountable if negligence played a role in the fatal crash.

Wrongful Death Claims for Families After an ATV Fatality

Under the Florida Wrongful Death Act, the family of a minor killed due to negligence may be entitled to compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of companionship, guidance, and protection
• Mental pain and suffering of surviving parents
• Medical expenses incurred prior to death

When a child is killed, these cases are especially sensitive and require immediate action to preserve evidence, vehicle data, and witness information.

How Flanagan & Bodenheimer Helps Families After Fatal Accidents

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we have extensive experience handling fatal accident cases involving minors, including ATV and recreational vehicle crashes throughout Florida.

Unlike high-volume firms, we intentionally limit our caseload, allowing families direct access to their attorney—not case managers.

Our firm acts quickly to:

• Conduct an independent investigation
• Preserve and inspect the ATV for defects
• Work with accident reconstruction and safety experts
• Identify all potential sources of liability and insurance
• Handle all communications with insurers and investigators

Families pay nothing upfront. We only recover fees if we successfully obtain compensation.

📞 Contact Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm for a free, confidential consultation.