A car-train crash, involving a Kia sedan and an Amtrak train, occurred on Thursday, April 22, 2021 at around 3:17 p.m. on South Scenic Highway, between Livingston Lake Road and US 98, near Frostproof in Polk County, FL. A 20-year-old woman and her 4-month-old son died in the accident.
Deputies of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office said that when they arrived at the scene, they found the 20-year-old woman dead. Her 4-month-old son was severely injured and was taken to Florida Hospital Heartland in Sebring, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the car, the 26-year-old sister of the deceased woman, sustained minor injuries to her leg and was taken to Lakeland Regional Health. No one was hurt in the Amtrak train.
The preliminary investigations suggested that the car was moving in the south direction on South Scenic Highway, and the Amtrak train was southbound too. Witness statements and evidence indicated that when the train approached the road, the crossing arms were in the down position and the warning lights were operational.
The Kia driver moved the car around the crossing arms, but before she was able to clear the tracks, the train hit the passenger’s side of the vehicle, behind the rear door. The impact split the car into two halves, propelling the backseat 50 meters. The deceased woman and her child were seated in the back portion of the vehicle. Initial investigations also revealed that none of the car passengers were properly restrained. The highway was closed for around four hours after the incident.
If any nearby person or vehicle were injured/damaged as a result of the driver’s negligence, there would likely be a valid personal injury claim.
We at MANGAL, PLLC pride ourselves in pursuing justice for clients no matter the cost. We take seriously our obligation to serve you to the best of our ability. We will fight for you and make sure that you recover the full compensation you deserve. No one should be left holding the bill for an accident caused by another’s negligence. Contact us today at (352) 995-9945 to discuss your case.
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