Merlin M. Hart, 74, of Avon Park, FL died Monday night of January 25, after his 2001 Volts Wagon Bug collided with a semitrailer in Polk County, FL according to the Florida Highway Patrol report.
According to Tampa Bay Online, Hart was eastbound on County Road 640, in Polk County, FL when the semitrailer, driven by Devon E. McPherson, 56, of Winter Haven, FL turned into his path from 5400 Garfield Road, in Polk County, FL according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
Hart's car ran under the truck's trailer and came to a stop underneath, the Florida highway patrol report stated.
Hart was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, while McPherson was, according to the Florida Highway Patrol report.
Whether alcohol was a factor in the crash is pending the investigation's outcome.
Hart died at the scene from injuries he suffered in the accident.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are about 43,000 people killed in fatal car accidents each year in the United States. Roughly, 40 percent of the fatal crashes are alcohol-related. In addition to fatal accidents, about 2.9 million people are injured each year.
Failure to wear a seat belt contributes to more fatalities than any other single traffic safety related behavior. About 63% of people killed in accidents are not wearing seat belts. Wearing a seat belt is the single most effective thing we can do to save lives and reduce injuries on America's roadways
Tania L. Rivas is an attorney who represents injured victims in Polk County, FL. The office is located at 274 W. Central Avenue, Suite C in Winter Haven, FL. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, please call Attorney Rivas today to schedule your free consultation. There is no fee or costs unless you win.
