People love living in and visiting the Fort Walton Beach area due to its stunning beaches and other amenities. However, like other areas throughout the country, vehicle accidents can happen at any time that can adversely affect the lives of residents and visitors alike. Such was the case on a recent Monday, when two cars collided on the Mid-Bay Bridge.
Accident details
According to reports, a 1999 Nissan Pathfinder was approaching the toll plaza on the northbound side of the bridge close to 3 p.m. on Monday, September 20. For reasons as yet unclear, a 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander was approaching the area from the south and crossed over into the northbound lanes. The vehicle struck the Pathfinder head-on.
The victims were described as a 37-year-old woman and a man aged 65. The report did not state who was driving the Outlander that collided head-on with the Pathfinder, but both victims were described as residents of Niceville. They were taken to Fort Walton Beach Medical Center for treatment of injuries described as serious but not life-threatening. Authorities closed the bridge for approximately two hours while investigating the crash.
Legal recourse
Since the report states the Outlander was responsible for the accident, that driver may face civil claims from the driver of the Pathfinder in an attempt at recovering compensation for associated expenses. Although the report does not state why the Outlander driver crossed into oncoming lanes, a showing of negligence will be necessary for the court to adjudicate the claim and award damages. A skilled personal injury attorney can help the injured victim of the Pathfinder to pursue a claim against the Outlander driver and will work diligently to help his or her client obtain the maximum amount of compensation under the law.