Deadly ATV Crash in Highlands County: One Teen Killed, Three Injured

A tragic crash in Highlands County claimed the life of a 19-year-old and left three others injured early Saturday morning, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The deadly incident occurred around 12:45 a.m. on June 21, 2025, in Lake Placid, when an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) collided with a pickup truck at a local intersection.

Authorities say the ATV was traveling southeast on Washington Boulevard NE and approached a stop sign at the intersection of Placid View Drive. At the same time, a Ford pickup truck was heading south on Placid View Drive.

For reasons still under investigation, the ATV turned left in front of the oncoming truck, resulting in a devastating collision. The front of the pickup truck struck the front of the ATV, causing catastrophic injuries to the ATV’s occupants.

The 19-year-old male driver of the ATV, a resident of Lake Placid, was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders. Two passengers, an 18-year-old and a 20-year-old, both also from Lake Placid—suffered critical injuries and were airlifted to nearby trauma centers. The 19-year-old driver of the pickup truck sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene. FHP confirmed that none of the ATV occupants were wearing seatbelts, while the pickup truck driver was properly restrained.

The Florida Highway Patrol’s Traffic Homicide Unit is actively investigating the circumstances of the crash. While ATVs are a popular form of transportation and recreation in rural areas like Highlands County, they come with significant risks—especially when operated on roadways not designed for such vehicles.

Florida has one of the highest rates of ATV-related injuries and fatalities in the nation. Many of these crashes occur in rural counties and involve:

• Lack of proper protective gear
• Inexperience or underage drivers
• Riding on paved public roads not designed for ATVs
• Impaired or distracted driving
• Poor visibility or road design

ATVs are not built to withstand collisions with larger vehicles, especially on highways or residential roads. When an ATV enters the path of a car or truck, often with little to no protection for its riders, the consequences can be deadly.

Who May Be Liable For an ATV Accident in Florida?

In crashes involving ATVs and motor vehicles, multiple parties could potentially be held civilly liable depending on the circumstances:

1. The ATV Driver or Owner

If the ATV driver turned into oncoming traffic or violated traffic laws, they (or their estate) may be considered at fault for the crash.

2. The Vehicle Driver

If the truck driver was speeding, distracted, or failed to yield when necessary, they could share liability, though in this case, early reports suggest the ATV turned in front of the truck.

3. Property Owners or Municipalities

If poor road signage, visibility issues, or lack of lighting contributed to the crash, the local government or property owner might be partially liable.

4. ATV Manufacturers or Rental Companies

If the ATV was defective or not properly maintained, a product liability claim might be possible.

An experienced Florida personal injury attorney can conduct a thorough investigation to determine fault and help injured victims or surviving families pursue compensation.

Safety Tips for ATV Riders in Florida

While accidents aren’t always preventable, these safety precautions can reduce risk:

• Never ride on paved public roads unless crossing legally at an intersection.
• Always wear helmets and safety gear, especially seatbelts if the ATV has them.
• Avoid night riding, especially in areas with low visibility or high-speed traffic.
• Take an ATV safety course, particularly for young or inexperienced riders.
• Never overload the vehicle beyond its intended passenger capacity.
• Follow all local and state laws regarding ATV operation.

What To Do If You’ve Been Injured in an ATV Crash

If you or a loved one has been involved in an ATV or motor vehicle crash, it’s important to:

1. Seek medical attention immediately.
2. Document the scene if possible. Photos, witness contact info, and police reports are critical.
3. Avoid giving detailed statements to insurance companies before speaking to a lawyer.
4. Contact an attorney who understands both personal injury and wrongful death laws in Florida.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we’ve handled many cases involving ATV crashes, fatal collisions, and complex liability questions. Our team can help you understand your legal rights and options, starting with a free consultation.