Young Child Critically Injured After Being Struck by Car on U.S. 29 in Escambia County

A tragic accident early Sunday morning left a 3-year-old child critically injured after being struck by a car in Escambia County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).

The incident occurred around 6:00 a.m. on U.S. 29 near E. Herman Avenue.

• The child was struck by a passenger vehicle traveling southbound on U.S. 29.
• Emergency responders rushed her to a local hospital, where she remains in critical condition.
• Authorities have not yet released details about how the child came to be on the roadway.

The Florida Highway Patrol confirmed the crash is still under investigation.

Crashes involving children and vehicles are especially devastating. According to the CDC, children are among the most vulnerable groups in pedestrian accidents due to:

• Their smaller size, making them harder for drivers to see.
• Quick, unpredictable movements near streets or intersections.
• Limited understanding of traffic patterns.

Even at lower speeds, the impact of a vehicle can cause catastrophic injuries to a child, including traumatic brain injury, internal bleeding, and broken bones.

Legal Considerations and Potential Claims

When a young child is injured in a pedestrian crash, multiple legal questions may arise, including:

• Driver responsibility: Was the driver speeding, distracted, impaired, or otherwise negligent?
• Roadway safety: Were there inadequate crosswalks, signage, or lighting in the area that contributed to the crash?
• Parental/guardian claims: Parents may file a personal injury claim on behalf of the child to cover medical expenses, long-term care needs, and pain and suffering.

If negligence is established, the injured child and their family may have the right to pursue compensation from the at-fault driver or other responsible parties.

In the aftermath of such a devastating accident, families can take steps to protect their rights and their child’s future:

1. Obtain the FHP crash report as soon as it becomes available.
2. Keep all medical records and bills, including hospital stays, surgeries, and ongoing treatment.
3. Consult an experienced personal injury attorney who understands child injury cases and can investigate whether negligence played a role.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we know that nothing is more traumatic than seeing a child seriously hurt in a preventable accident. We work tirelessly to help families pursue justice, financial recovery, and accountability when negligence leads to tragedy.

If your child has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact us today for a free consultation. Our team is ready to fight for your family’s rights and secure the support you need during this difficult time.