Motorcyclist Killed in Collision With Dump Truck on 10th Avenue in Palm Springs: Legal Options

A 21-year-old motorcyclist was tragically killed on Saturday after colliding with a dump truck on 10th Avenue North in Palm Springs, according to a crash report released by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO). The fatal crash underscores the dangers motorcycles face when large commercial vehicles make sudden roadway movements.

PBSO investigators say the crash occurred when:

• A dump truck was positioned in the center turn lane on 10th Avenue North, preparing to back into a driveway
• At the same time, a motorcycle driven by Heisler Samayoa, 21, was traveling eastbound on 10th Avenue
• As the dump truck backed across the roadway and into the eastbound lanes, the motorcycle collided with the driver’s side of the truck

Samayoa was pronounced dead at the scene. The dump truck driver was uninjured.

No further details about citations, potential impairment, visibility conditions, or truck safety compliance have been released as of publication.

Dump trucks and other commercial vehicles have significant blind spots and require strict adherence to safety procedures, including:

• Ensuring the roadway is clear
• Using a spotter when backing into active traffic lanes
• Activating proper backup alarms and hazard lights
• Checking mirrors and blind zones
• Complying with company and DOT safety protocols

When these steps are neglected—even for a moment—motorcyclists are at especially high risk. Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see, giving riders little time to react when a large truck suddenly obstructs their path.

Who May Be Liable in a Fatal Dump Truck Collision?

Florida law allows victims’ families to pursue a wrongful death claim when a commercial driver or company acts negligently.

Potentially responsible parties include:

1. The Dump Truck Driver

Liability may apply if the driver:

• Improperly backed into active lanes
• Failed to yield to oncoming traffic
• Did not use a spotter
• Violated commercial vehicle safety rules

2. The Trucking or Construction Company

Companies may be responsible for:

• Inadequate training
• Unsafe backing policies
• Failure to maintain mirrors, alarms, or safety equipment
• Pressuring drivers to rush or cut corners

3. Maintenance or Equipment Contractors

If malfunctioning backup alarms, brake lights, or visibility equipment contributed to the crash.

4. Vehicle Manufacturers

If a defect in the truck’s systems caused or contributed to the collision.

Key Evidence in Dump Truck Wrongful Death Cases

Truck-involved crashes require immediate evidence preservation. Crucial items include:

• Truck dash cam or rear camera footage
• Backup alarm operation records
• Company safety policies & training logs
• The truck’s maintenance and inspection reports
• Driver statements and cell phone data
• Measurements from the crash scene
• Witness statements and surveillance video from nearby businesses

Commercial vehicle insurers respond aggressively to limit their exposure—often within hours. Families benefit greatly from having a legal team begin its independent investigation immediately.

Legal Rights After a Fatal Motorcycle Crash

Under the Florida Wrongful Death Act (§ 768.16–768.21), surviving parents and family members may recover compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of companionship
• Mental and emotional suffering
• Lost future income or support
• Medical bills
• Pain and suffering damages

Motorcycle crashes involving commercial trucks often lead to significant recoveries due to the multiple layers of insurance typically involved.

Flanagan & Bodenheimer Represents Families in Fatal Motorcycle and Truck Collisions

Our firm is highly experienced in cases involving:

• Dump trucks
• Construction vehicles
• Semi-trucks
• Box trucks
• Commercial fleet vehicles
• Roadway maintenance equipment

We intentionally keep a small caseload, ensuring each family receives direct access to an attorney—not a case manager. Our team takes on complex cases that other firms reject and has a proven track record of securing results in catastrophic injury and wrongful death claims. You pay no fees unless we win.

If your family has been affected by this tragedy or a similar crash in Palm Beach County, contact us for a free, confidential consultation. We serve clients throughout Palm Springs, West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Riviera Beach, and all of South Florida.