Motorcyclist and Juvenile Passenger Killed After Crash in Deerfield Beach

Two people — a 21-year-old motorcyclist and a juvenile passenger — have died following a devastating crash with a car in Deerfield Beach, according to the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO).

Deputies say the crash occurred on October 18 near the 1200 block of South Powerline Road. According to investigators, 65-year-old Douglass Hall was driving a Nissan Rogue south on Powerline Road when he attempted to make a U-turn to head north. During the maneuver, the passenger side of Hall’s vehicle was struck by an oncoming motorcycle.

The motorcycle was operated by 21-year-old Simon Dias Do Santos, who was carrying a juvenile passenger. Both were thrown from the bike in the impact.

Emergency responders transported both victims to a nearby hospital. Santos was listed in critical condition at the time of arrival and later died from his injuries. The juvenile passenger also remained in critical condition for several days before passing away on October 25.

The driver and passenger in the Nissan suffered non-life-threatening injuries and were treated at the scene.

Accidents involving left turns or U-turns are among the most common causes of motorcycle fatalities. Because of their smaller size and visibility challenges, motorcycles are often overlooked by drivers attempting to turn across traffic.

Under Florida Statute §316.122, drivers turning left or making a U-turn must yield to oncoming vehicles until it is safe to proceed. Failing to yield is one of the most frequent forms of negligence in intersection-related crashes — particularly deadly for motorcyclists, who have no protective structure around them.

These types of collisions often result in:

• Traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Multiple fractures and road rash
• Severe head trauma and instant fatality

Determining Liability in Motorcycle Crashes

The Broward Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit continues to investigate the circumstances of this crash. In similar cases, determining fault may involve:

• Reviewing intersection visibility and roadway design
• Examining vehicle data recorders (“black boxes”)
• Analyzing witness statements and surveillance footage
• Determining whether the driver failed to yield or performed an illegal turn

If the Nissan driver is found to have made an unsafe turn or violated right-of-way laws, he may face civil liability for the wrongful deaths of both victims.

Legal Options for Families After a Fatal Motorcycle Accident

Families who lose loved ones in preventable motorcycle crashes may pursue justice through a wrongful death claim under the Florida Wrongful Death Act (§§768.16–768.26). Recoverable damages can include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical bills related to emergency treatment
• Loss of companionship, care, and parental guidance
• Emotional pain and suffering
• Loss of income and financial support

Even if no criminal charges are filed, civil action can still be taken to hold negligent drivers and their insurers accountable.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we have represented numerous families across Florida who have lost loved ones in motorcycle and vehicle collisions. Our attorneys work closely with crash reconstruction experts and investigators to uncover the truth and secure justice for victims.

We purposely maintain a small caseload so that every client — especially those facing the unthinkable loss of a child or young adult — receives personal attention and compassionate representation.

If your loved one was killed in a motorcycle crash in Broward County or anywhere in Florida, contact Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm for experienced legal support.

📞 Call 305-638-4143 or reach out online for a free consultation in English or Spanish. You pay nothing unless we win your case.