Man Ejected and Killed After SUV Overturns on U.S. 1 in Grant-Valkaria, FHP Says

A deadly single-vehicle crash in Grant-Valkaria claimed the life of a 27-year-old Palm Bay man late Saturday night, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP). The violent rollover occurred around 11:30 p.m. along U.S. Highway 1, just south of Valkaria Road.

Investigators say a Hyundai Tucson was traveling northbound in the outside lane when it suddenly veered left and struck the raised curbed median. The impact caused the vehicle to lose its left front tire, sending it careening across the roadway.

According to the crash report:

• The 26-year-old female driver from Palm Bay was unable to regain control.
• The SUV crossed into the southbound inside lane.
• It then hit the raised grassy median, a plastic pole, and the edge of the pavement.
• The vehicle overturned, ejecting the male passenger, who was not wearing a seat belt.

Both occupants were transported to a nearby hospital. The man was later pronounced dead, while the driver suffered minor injuries.

Troopers confirmed the passenger was unrestrained at the time of the crash — a factor that significantly increases the risk of fatal injury in rollover collisions.

The investigation remains active.

Rollover crashes account for a disproportionate number of fatalities because they involve:

• Vehicle instability and loss of control
• Severe roof crush or collapse
• Passenger ejection when seat belts are not used
• High-energy impacts across multiple points

Even a single-vehicle crash can involve multiple layers of liability, including:

• Tire failure
• Steering or mechanical defects
• Roadway design or maintenance issues
• Improper median or barrier structure
• Negligent driving behavior

Our firm investigates beyond the initial FHP report to determine every contributing cause.

Legal Options for Families After a Fatal Rollover Crash

Florida families have rights under the Florida Wrongful Death Act, even when the crash involves a single vehicle.

We explore potential claims related to:

1. Product Liability

If a mechanical issue — such as tire detachment, steering malfunction, or structural failure — contributed to the crash, manufacturers and distributors may be liable.

2. Roadway Liability

Municipalities may be responsible if:

• Medians or curbs were improperly designed
• Road conditions created an unreasonable hazard
• Warning signs or lane markings were insufficient

3. Negligence of the Driver

If the passenger was relying on the driver for safe transport, the driver may bear partial or full responsibility depending on circumstances.

4. Seat Belt and Ejection Analysis

While seat belt use is a factor, it does not automatically prevent a wrongful death claim. Comparative negligence (§768.81) may still allow significant recovery for surviving family members.

Available Damages for Families

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of support and services
• Mental pain and suffering for parents (for deceased adult children in certain circumstances)
• Medical expenses
• Loss of companionship and protection (in eligible cases)

How Our Law Firm Helps Families Seek Answers and Justice

Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm intentionally handles a limited caseload, allowing our attorneys to perform deep investigations that often uncover:

• Vehicle black box data
• Roadway engineering flaws
• Witness statements and surveillance footage
• Autopsy and biomechanical analysis
• Product defect evidence

We represent families throughout Brevard County and across Florida, and you never pay unless we win compensation on your behalf.

Losing someone suddenly and violently is devastating. Families deserve clear answers, accountability, and legal guidance from attorneys who truly care.

📞 Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. We will walk you through your options and fight to uncover the truth.