18-Year-Old Woman Killed After Collision with Tow Truck on Florida’s Turnpike in Lake County

A tragic accident claimed the life of an 18-year-old woman Saturday night after her Ford Mustang Mach-E collided with a tow truck on Florida’s Turnpike in Lake County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

Authorities reported that the crash occurred just before 10 p.m. near mile marker 291 when a tow truck was merging back onto the roadway from the shoulder. Troopers say the truck entered the path of the young woman’s vehicle, leading to a violent collision.

The woman, whose name has not yet been released, was pronounced dead at the scene. The tow truck driver was not injured. Investigators continue to examine the circumstances of the crash to determine fault and whether any traffic violations or mechanical issues contributed to the tragedy.

Determining Liability in Merging or Shoulder-Related Collisions

Collisions involving vehicles re-entering the roadway from the shoulder or breakdown lane often raise complex questions about negligence and right-of-way. Under Florida Statute §316.125, drivers must yield to all oncoming traffic before entering or crossing a roadway. Failure to do so may constitute negligence if it leads to a fatal or serious crash.

In fatal collisions like this, several factors may be investigated, including:

• Improper Merging or Unsafe Lane Entry – Whether the tow truck driver failed to ensure the lane was clear before merging.
• Lighting and Visibility – Whether the truck’s hazard lights or other warning signals were active while stopped on the shoulder.
• Speed and Reaction Time – Whether the approaching driver had sufficient time to respond to the truck’s movement.
• Vehicle Defects or Equipment Failure – Whether a malfunctioning turn signal, brake light, or other mechanical issue played a role.

If negligence is proven, the family of the deceased may pursue a wrongful death claim under the Florida Wrongful Death Act (§§768.16–768.26) to recover compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages.

Losing a loved one in a sudden and preventable crash is devastating. Families are often left grappling with grief while facing unexpected medical and funeral costs. Beyond the emotional loss, these accidents can have lasting financial effects — especially when the victim was young and full of potential, as in this case.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we have represented numerous families across Florida who have lost loved ones due to negligent or unsafe driving. Our firm conducts thorough investigations, works with accident reconstruction experts, and fights to hold responsible parties accountable.

Legal Options for Families After a Fatal Crash

If your loved one was killed in a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to pursue justice through a civil claim. Compensation may include:

• Funeral and burial costs
• Medical bills related to emergency treatment
• Loss of companionship and parental guidance
• Emotional pain and suffering
• Lost income and future earning potential

Our attorneys handle these cases on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

Contact a Florida Wrongful Death Attorney

If you lost a family member in a crash on Florida’s Turnpike or anywhere in the state, the attorneys at Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm can help you understand your rights and options. We’re committed to uncovering the truth, holding negligent parties accountable, and helping families rebuild after unimaginable loss.

Call 305-638-4143 or contact us online for a free consultation in English or Spanish. You pay nothing unless we win your case.