Spring Hill Man Killed, Two Injured in Three-Vehicle Crash on U.S. 98 in Pasco County

A 47-year-old man from Spring Hill was killed early Monday morning in a three-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 98 in Pasco County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).

Troopers say the crash occurred when a 24-year-old Davenport man driving a Kia K5 was traveling northbound on U.S. 98 and crossed into the southbound lanes, colliding nearly head-on with a Dodge Caliber driven by the Spring Hill man.

The force of the impact caused the Dodge to spin into another vehicle, resulting in a three-car pileup. The Spring Hill driver was pronounced dead at the scene, while the Davenport man was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries.

The driver of the third vehicle was also injured, though the extent of their injuries has not been released. The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the cause of the crash, and the names of those involved have not yet been made public.

Head-on and wrong-way crashes are among the most catastrophic types of collisions on Florida roads. Despite accounting for a small percentage of all traffic accidents, they cause a disproportionately high number of fatalities due to the extreme forces involved.

Common causes of head-on or crossover crashes include:

• Driver fatigue or distraction
• Impaired driving (alcohol or drugs)
• Speeding or reckless passing
• Medical emergencies or loss of vehicle control
• Poor roadway visibility or design

Under Florida Statute §316.0895, all motorists must maintain their lane and avoid driving left of center unless it is safe to do so. Crossing into oncoming traffic — even momentarily — can have deadly consequences, as seen in this tragic case.

Determining Fault in Multi-Vehicle Collisions

In a three-vehicle crash, determining liability can be complex. Multiple insurance carriers may be involved, and fault is often distributed among several drivers depending on contributing factors. Investigators typically examine:

• Vehicle positions and skid marks
• Traffic camera or dashcam footage
• Witness statements
• Toxicology results
• Vehicle data recorders (“black boxes”)

If the northbound driver who crossed lanes is found negligent — for example, by driving distracted or impaired — they, and potentially their insurance provider, could be held legally responsible for the death and injuries that followed.

Legal Options for Families After a Fatal Crash

Under the Florida Wrongful Death Act (§§768.16–768.26), the family of a deceased victim may seek compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of companionship and emotional support
• Loss of financial contributions or benefits
• Medical expenses related to the crash
• Mental pain and suffering of surviving relatives

Wrongful death claims also play a crucial role in holding negligent drivers accountable, especially in cases where unsafe or reckless behavior led to a preventable loss of life.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we have represented countless families throughout Pasco County and across Florida who have lost loved ones in fatal traffic accidents. Our firm conducts independent investigations, works with accident reconstruction experts, and aggressively pursues justice for victims of negligence.

We intentionally keep our caseload small so that each family receives the compassion, attention, and dedication their case deserves.

If your loved one was killed in a head-on or multi-vehicle crash in Pasco County or anywhere in Florida, our attorneys at Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm are here to help you navigate this difficult time.

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