MANATEE COUNTY – A tragic single-vehicle accident early Monday morning on State Road 64 claimed the life of a 22-year-old Myakka City man, the Florida Highway Patrol reported.
The crash occurred at approximately 3:16 AM when the driver of a sport utility vehicle (SUV), a 23-year-old man from Myakka City, was stopped for traffic on Verna Bethany Road at the intersection of State Road 64.
According to FHP, the SUV driver attempted to make a left turn onto the westbound lanes of State Road 64 but lost control of the vehicle. The SUV left the roadway, entered the shoulder, overturned, and collided with a tree.
The passenger, a 22-year-old man, was ejected from the vehicle during the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene by Manatee County EMS. The driver sustained minor injuries.
The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the crash.
The Risks of Left Turns and Losing Control
This heartbreaking accident serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with left turns and the importance of maintaining control of a vehicle. While left turns are a routine part of driving, they are also one of the riskiest maneuvers, particularly at high speeds or in low-visibility conditions.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
- Left turns account for 22% of intersection-related crashes in the U.S.
- Vehicle rollovers, while less common, are responsible for almost 35% of all passenger vehicle fatalities due to their severity.
Drivers are urged to:
- Slow down and maintain control. Take turns at a safe speed to avoid losing control.
- Buckle up. Proper seatbelt use can significantly reduce the risk of ejection and fatalities in rollover accidents.
- Stay alert and drive defensively. Be mindful of road conditions and avoid making rushed or abrupt turns.
A momentary lapse in control can lead to devastating outcomes. By exercising caution and prioritizing safety, we can help prevent such tragedies.
The post 22-Year-Old Passenger Killed in Single-Vehicle Crash on State Road 64 appeared first on Justice Pays.
