Starke Woman Killed in Single-Vehicle Crash Near Lawtey, FHP Investigating

A tragic single-vehicle crash north of Lawtey claimed the life of a young woman Saturday night, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

Troopers said the crash occurred along U.S. 301, approximately half a mile south of the Clay County line. The driver, a 21-year-old woman from Starke, was traveling northbound when her vehicle left the roadway for reasons that remain under investigation. Authorities reported that the car struck a drain pipe, resulting in fatal injuries.

The woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators noted that she was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.

Florida Highway Patrol detectives are continuing to investigate what caused the vehicle to leave the roadway. As part of that process, troopers will examine factors such as speed, roadway conditions, vehicle condition, lighting, and any potential mechanical or environmental issues that may have contributed to the crash.

Even in single-vehicle accidents, investigators must carefully reconstruct the events leading up to the collision to determine whether outside factors played a role.

While this incident has been described as a single-vehicle crash, these cases are not always as straightforward as they initially appear. In some situations, contributing factors may include:

• Unsafe road design or poor roadway maintenance
• Defective vehicle components or mechanical failures
• Inadequate signage, lighting, or drainage
• Obstacles or hazards near the roadway

Determining whether any of these factors contributed to the crash requires a thorough investigation beyond the initial law enforcement report.

Legal Options After a Fatal Crash

When a fatal crash occurs, surviving family members may have legal rights under Florida law, depending on the circumstances. Under the Florida Wrongful Death Act, eligible family members may be able to seek compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support and services
• Mental pain and suffering
• Loss of companionship and guidance

If roadway conditions, vehicle defects, or other negligent conduct played a role, liability may extend beyond the driver alone.

Fatal crash cases are time-sensitive. Physical evidence, vehicle data, and witness information can be lost or degraded quickly. An early, independent review can help ensure that all potential contributing factors are properly examined and preserved.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent families who have lost loved ones in sudden, preventable tragedies across Florida. We intentionally maintain a small caseload so families receive direct access to experienced attorneys during one of the most difficult times of their lives.

Our firm can assist by:

• Conducting an independent investigation
• Reviewing FHP findings and crash data
• Evaluating roadway and vehicle conditions
• Identifying all potential sources of liability and insurance coverage

Families pay no upfront fees. We only recover fees if compensation is obtained.

If you have lost a loved one in a crash near Lawtey or anywhere in Florida, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. Understanding your rights can help protect your family’s future.

Contact Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm for a free, confidential consultation. We serve families throughout Bradford County, Clay County, and all of Florida.