Deadly Crash Shuts Down Part of State Road 15 in DeLand

A fatal single-vehicle crash early Friday morning claimed the life of a 43-year-old man and forced the closure of part of State Road 15 (Spring Garden Avenue) in DeLand, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).

The crash occurred around 2 a.m. at the intersection of State Road 15 (Spring Garden Avenue) and Cranleigh Avenue. Troopers said the man was driving a Toyota Camry when he lost control of the vehicle, causing it to leave the roadway and strike a railroad crossing gate support pole.

According to FHP, the impact caused the car to rotate counterclockwise. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene. No other vehicles were reported to be involved.

As a result of the collision, both directions of SR-15 were shut down for several hours while crews worked to clear the roadway and investigators processed the scene. The crash remains under investigation.

While this crash involved only one vehicle, single-car accidents are not always as straightforward as they may appear. In some cases, external factors may contribute to a loss of control, including:

• Poor roadway design or maintenance
• Inadequate lighting or visibility
• Dangerous roadside obstacles placed too close to the travel lanes
• Defective vehicle components such as steering, brakes, or tires
• Missing or malfunctioning traffic control devices

When a crash involves a fixed object, such as a utility pole or railroad support structure, investigators may examine whether the object was properly designed, maintained, or positioned in accordance with safety standards.

Potential Legal Options for Families After a Fatal Crash

If a loved one is killed in a motor vehicle crash, Florida law may allow surviving family members to pursue a wrongful death claim, even if no criminal charges are filed.

Depending on the circumstances, a wrongful death claim may seek compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support and services
• Loss of companionship, protection, and guidance
• Mental pain and suffering of surviving family members
• Medical expenses incurred prior to death

These cases often require an independent investigation beyond the initial law enforcement report to determine whether roadway conditions, vehicle defects, or third-party negligence played a role.

Law enforcement investigations focus on determining what happened for traffic and public safety purposes. They do not always explore civil liability, roadway design issues, or product defects. An independent investigation can help preserve evidence, review crash data, and identify whether another party may share responsibility.

Families dealing with the sudden loss of a loved one are often left with unanswered questions and significant financial stress. Speaking with an experienced wrongful death attorney can help families understand their rights and options during this difficult time.

If you lost a loved one in a fatal crash in DeLand, Volusia County, or anywhere in Florida, you may be entitled to answers—and accountability.

A consultation can help clarify next steps while allowing your family to focus on healing.