March 30, 2023
Car Accident Lawyer
A car accident in Florida led to a peculiar situation in which a driver went to extreme measures to elude the scene of a car crash. Responding deputies state that a driver had attempted to hide in a swamp close by. The accident happened in the evening, around 8:30 p.m. (ET) near the city of Mulberry on April 10, 2023. Just south of Lakeland, a Nissan Sentra crossed the centerline on Highway 640 and struck a semi-truck. Polk County Sheriff Office deputies responded to the area and learned that the Sentra driver had panicked and tried to hide in a swap about a mile away. Zachary Brooks, 23 year old resident of Mulberry, allegedly fled the scene while removing most of what he was wearing at the time.
The driver ran from the scene without exchanging necessary information with the truck driver, such as first and last name, driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance details. The defendant was described as essentially scampering away while in his undergarments. Brooks was found by search dogs who were brought to the scene. Eventually, he was found hiding one mile away in a swamp. After deputies located him, Brooks was cooperative and complied with the arrest. He was treated for minor injuries. He is being charged with failing to maintain insurance, leaving the scene of an accident with injuries, and knowingly driving a vehicle while his license was revoked or suspended.
In the scenario described here, despite the silly behavior of the offending driver, it is important to realize that by fleeing the scene, it only made matters worse. The driver did not call 911 and left the truck driver unattended, who may have required medical attention for injuries of his own. It is never recommended to elude the scene of a crash, as it can cause an exacerbated situation to unfold and risks the lives of others. A Melbourne, FL car accident lawyer knows the extreme lengths people will go to try and avoid being at fault for a car accident. But the team at Tuttle Larsen, P.A. prioritizes victim’s rights and wellbeing. We understand the impacts that a car accident can have on the body and mind, and victims may be entitled to substantial compensation for what they have endured.
While your situation may not entail someone fleeing the area into a swap, you may have sustained physical injuries and significant property damage due to a reckless driver. If this is the case, then we suggest contacting a law firm that is experienced in handling car accidents. During your consultation, we will ask more details about the incident and how you were negatively affected. From there, you may choose to file an insurance claim and/or sue the driver directly for your losses. But each case is unique, so it will be difficult to know if your situation warrants legal action or not, that is, until you speak with a lawyer. If you have questions or concerns in the aftermath of a serious car wreck, contact us as soon as possible.