Written By: Lenorae C. Atter
Attorney at Law
A pedestrian died after being struck by a car on U.S. 1 near Lewis Speedway in St. Johns County, Florida on Tuesday night. According to Channel 4 News, the victim was 22 year-old Dominic Amodeo, of Huntington Station, NY.
His body was found approximately 4 miles away from where the owner of the vehicle told police she hit a deer, after the car was placed at the scene by a witness. The Florida Highway Patrol’s investigation led FHP to believe that Dominic Amodeo was walking south on the shoulder of U.S. 1 a little south of Lewis Speedway when he was struck by the vehicle. It was first believed that the driver’s owner, Nicole Jonas, 21 of Palm Coast, was driving the car as it struck the victim. However, a few hours after the accident, the police received a phone call from a man stating that he had hit and killed the pedestrian. The man was later identified as Jonas’s boyfriend.
When walking at night, it is always a good idea to wear light colored clothing and walk against traffic, according to Florida safety tips. This helps them see you and for you to see what may be coming towards you.
If you are wondering who would be liable for this type of accident, the owner of the car and the driver can be held liable. Typically, unless a vehicle is stolen, the owner has given permission to the driver to use the car or truck. Once that permission is given, the owner of the car is liable for the negligent actions of the driver and the driver is liable for his/her own negligent driving in Florida.
If your or a family member suffer personal injuries as a result of a pedestrian accident, it is a good idea to find out your rights and options by speaking with a qualified Florida personal injury attorney.