Disabled Pedestrian Struck By Tractor-Trailer

In September 2025, a Jacksonville woman in a motorized wheelchair was trying to cross a road in Winter Springs when she was struck and killed by a tractor-trailer. The tractor-trailer driver had been trying to turn, and neither he nor the pedestrian apparently saw each other before the impact. While the driver was cooperative and ‘remained on the scene’ to assist law enforcement, he and his employer may still face liability if the woman’s next of kin file suit.

Possible Wrongful Death Liability

A person or entity may be held liable for wrongful death if their wrongful “act, negligence, or default or breach” was the direct cause of another person’s passing. For example, if a person is texting and driving, and they strike and kill a pedestrian or bicyclist, they may be held civilly liable for that person’s passing because their conduct was negligent as a matter of law. Damages can be significant, depending on the degree of negligence.

There are many different factors that contribute to tractor-trailer accidents, but while some may be out of anyone’s control – for example, sudden bad weather – there are others that can be laid at the door of a tractor-trailer driver or their employer (or both). Actions like speeding, driving beyond recommended hours of service (and thus being fatigued), and failure to obey signs can directly cause injuries or deaths. In addition, a doctrine known as vicarious liability holds that if certain criteria apply, an employer can be held liable for the civil wrongs committed by their employees.

Be Aware Of Your Own Fault

If you have been involved in an accident with a tractor-trailer, it is important to be aware and honest if you believe your actions might have contributed to the accident, because Florida law bars any financial recovery for those whose percentage of fault is more than 50 percent. In other words, if you are judged more than 50 percent responsible for your own injuries, you cannot recover any damages.

This also holds for a deceased person – if they are held to bear a majority of the fault for causing the accident in which they passed, their estate (and their survivors) cannot recover damages. Determining fault can obviously be more difficult in a case where the victim is deceased – but it can still be done with the right attorney to guide you through the legal process.

Contact A Tampa Tractor-Trailer Accident Attorney

An accident with a tractor-trailer can lead to severe injuries or even death. If your family has lost a loved one in this type of crash, a Tampa tractor-trailer accident attorney from the Rinaldo Law Group can help you understand your options. Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation.

Source:

fox35orlando.com/news/woman-wheelchair-hit-killed-semi-tractor-while-crossing-winter-springs-road-police