A 53-year-old Sarasota man was killed and two drivers were seriously injured in a Sunday afternoon crash in Manatee County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The fatal collision occurred around 3:44 p.m. on March 1 at the intersection of 53rd Avenue West and 20th Street West in the Bradenton area.

According to FHP’s news release:

• A 19-year-old Bradenton man was driving a Ford Mustang westbound on 53rd Avenue West in the right lane, approaching a red traffic signal at the T-intersection with 20th Street West.
• A 38-year-old Bradenton man was driving a Ford F-150 southbound on 20th Street West, approaching a green light in the left-turn lane.
• As the truck driver attempted to turn left onto 53rd Avenue West, the Mustang allegedly drove through its red light and collided with the front of the F-150.

Both drivers sustained serious injuries.

The passenger in the F-150 — identified as a 53-year-old Sarasota man — suffered critical injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where he later died.

The crash remains under investigation, and charges are pending.

Separate Crash: 63-Year-Old Sarasota Motorcyclist Killed in Bradenton

In a separate fatal crash reported over the weekend, a 63-year-old Sarasota motorcyclist died Saturday afternoon in Bradenton.

According to FHP, the crash occurred at approximately 1:28 p.m. at the intersection of 301 Boulevard East and 5th Street East in Manatee County.

Troopers said:

• A 37-year-old Bradenton woman driving a 2016 Ford Explorer was traveling north on 5th Street East and approached a stop sign at 301 Boulevard East.
• A 2007 Honda Silver Wing motorcycle, driven by the Sarasota man, was traveling west on 301 Boulevard East.
• The SUV attempted to cross 301 Boulevard East and moved into the motorcycle’s path.
• The motorcycle struck the right side of the SUV.

The rider was ejected and transported to a hospital, where he later died.

The SUV driver was not injured. A passenger in the SUV sustained minor injuries.

This crash also remains under investigation.

Legal Considerations in Intersection and Traffic Signal Crashes

Both incidents involved intersection collisions — one allegedly involving a red-light violation and the other involving a vehicle entering the path of oncoming traffic.

Intersection crashes often raise questions about:

• Traffic signal compliance
• Right-of-way violations
• Speed
• Driver distraction
• Visibility and roadway design

In Florida, when a driver fails to obey a traffic control signal or yield the right of way, they may be held civilly liable for resulting injuries or fatalities.

Wrongful Death and Injury Claims in Florida

When a fatal crash occurs due to potential negligence, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim under Florida law.

Compensation in these cases may include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical costs incurred prior to death
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship and protection
• Mental pain and suffering

In serious injury cases, victims may seek damages for:

• Emergency and ongoing medical treatment
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Permanent disability
• Pain and suffering

A thorough crash investigation and reconstruction are often critical to determining fault, especially when signal timing and right-of-way are disputed.

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate both fatal crashes in Manatee County.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a similar accident, contact our office today for a free consultation to discuss your legal rights and options.