Fatal Crash in Northwest Miami-Dade Leaves One Dead, One Critically Injured: Legal Options for Families

A tragic accident in northwest Miami-Dade County has left one man dead and another critically injured, according to local authorities. The crash occurred around 2:12 p.m. on Sunday near the intersection of Northwest 85th Street and 17th Avenue.

Officials confirmed that both men were transported to a nearby hospital following the collision. Sadly, one of the drivers later succumbed to his injuries. The other remains in critical condition. Traffic homicide detectives with Miami-Dade Police are actively investigating the cause of the crash.

While the official cause of this incident has not yet been released, serious crashes in Miami-Dade often involve contributing factors such as:

• Speeding on local and arterial roads
• Distracted driving (including phone use)
• Failure to yield at intersections
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Mechanical failures or defective auto parts

Intersections, like the one where this crash occurred, are particularly dangerous because they present multiple points of conflict between vehicles. Even a brief lapse in attention or judgment can lead to catastrophic consequences.

Wrongful Death Claims in Florida

When a person dies in a car crash caused by another driver’s negligence, their family may pursue a wrongful death claim under the Florida Wrongful Death Act. Eligible survivors — including spouses, children, and sometimes parents — may be entitled to compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical bills from the final injury
• Loss of companionship, guidance, and support
• Emotional suffering and mental anguish
• Loss of financial support the deceased would have contributed

Because wrongful death claims are civil cases, they are separate from any criminal investigation or traffic citation issued by law enforcement.

Personal Injury Claims for Surviving Victims

The surviving driver in this case, currently listed in critical condition, may also have the right to pursue a personal injury claim if the crash was caused by the other driver’s negligence. Compensation in personal injury cases can include:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Costs of long-term care or rehabilitation

In Florida, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the date of the crash, making it important for victims and families to act quickly.

Why Legal Representation Matters After a Fatal Car Accident

Fatal and catastrophic injury crashes often involve complex insurance issues and extensive investigations. Insurance carriers may attempt to limit their payouts, even when liability seems clear. An experienced Miami car accident attorney can:

• Conduct an independent investigation into the crash
• Preserve and analyze critical evidence such as surveillance footage, black box data, and eyewitness testimony
• Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies
• File wrongful death or personal injury lawsuits if necessary

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we understand the devastating impact these tragedies have on families. Our attorneys are committed to helping victims and their loved ones seek accountability and full compensation under Florida law.

If you or a loved one has been affected by this crash or a similar incident, contact us today at 305-638-4143 or through our website for a free consultation. We serve families across Miami-Dade and throughout Florida, and we charge no fees unless we win your case.