4-Year-Old Girl Killed After Being Run Over in Apopka Driveway, FHP Reports

A heartbreaking tragedy in Apopka has left a young child dead after a driveway accident involving an SUV. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the incident occurred on April 1, 2026, around 7:15 p.m. near Robinson Avenue and 13th Street.

What We Know About the Incident

• The crash occurred in a private driveway near Robinson Avenue and 13th Street in Apopka, Florida
• The incident took place around 7:15 p.m. on April 1, 2026
• The victim was a 4-year-old girl identified as Kamaria Simmons
• The child was standing near the right rear passenger door of a 2018 Chevrolet Traverse
• The driver of the vehicle, identified as the child’s mother, pulled forward
• The driver was unaware the child was positioned near the vehicle
• The child fell and was struck by the SUV
• The victim was transported to Arnold Palmer Hospital
• She was later pronounced deceased
• Family members gathered at the home following the incident
• The family described the child as loving and playful
• A vigil is being planned in her memory
• The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating the incident

Risks and Safety Concerns

Driveway accidents involving children are among the most devastating and preventable types of incidents. Young children are especially vulnerable because they are small, difficult to see from inside a vehicle, and may move unpredictably.

Larger vehicles such as SUVs often have blind spots, particularly around the rear and sides, making it difficult for drivers to detect children nearby. Even at low speeds, these accidents can result in severe or fatal injuries.

These incidents often occur in familiar environments like homes, where drivers may not anticipate danger. A momentary lapse in awareness can have life-altering consequences.

Legal Options and Potential Liability

While many driveway accidents involve tragic circumstances within families, legal considerations may still arise depending on the facts of the case.

Potential liable parties may include:

• Driver: A driver may be held liable if negligence contributed to the incident, though cases involving family members can be complex.
• Vehicle manufacturer: If a vehicle’s design, such as inadequate visibility or malfunctioning safety features, contributed to the crash, a product liability claim may be evaluated.
• Third parties: If another factor contributed to the incident, such as distractions or external interference, additional liability may be considered.

Florida law may allow for insurance claims to cover damages even in cases involving family members, depending on policy terms and circumstances.

Families impacted by such tragedies may be entitled to pursue compensation for:

• Medical expenses incurred prior to death
• Funeral and burial costs
• Emotional suffering and loss of companionship

Investigation Ongoing

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Authorities are expected to review vehicle positioning, visibility factors, and other conditions that may have contributed to the crash.

This tragic loss serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and safety precautions around vehicles, especially in residential settings.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a similar incident, contact Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.