Family Saved from Burning Car after Collision in Orlando

By Orlando Personal Injury Attorney on June 7, 2017

The bravery and quick thinking of several witnesses to a violent accent at the intersection of Orlando’s East Colonial Drive and Forsyth Road likely saved the life of a child. The accident, which led to the injury of six people, took place on Wednesday morning after a 2001 Honda Accord driven by Anaida Angulo collided with the rear end of a Toyota minivan being driven by an unnamed man from Maryland. Inside the car with the man from Maryland were the rest of his family, which included his three children.

Witnesses to the accident state that that the Angulo did not appear to slow down at all as they approached the intersection. The driver of the minivan, obeying the traffic signals, was stopped, waiting for the light to change. As the posted speed limit in the area is between 40 and 45 miles-per-hour, it seems possible that Angulo, if driving at full speed, collided with the minivan while going 50 or so miles-per-hour.

Almost immediately after the accident, witnesses say that the minivan ignited into flame. This is when the bystanders leapt into action. Rushing to the car, they began to help the family from the burning vehicle. One child in particular appeared trapped in the wreckage. As the flames grew hotter the witnesses worked to reach the child. The child’s brush with death cannot be understated: his pants had caught on fire just as the witnesses pulled him from the car.

Florida State Troopers arrived quickly at the scene, however it was the selfless response of the onlookers that likely saved the life of at least one of those involved. The family was taken to the hospital where they are being treated for burns and other wounds related to the accident. They are all expected to survive, however their brush with death will likely not leave them unscathed. Even the most minor accidents often result in physical damage to those involved. This damage, which is often most noticeable in the head and neck, may result in continued physical therapy and doctor’s visits, both of which can become a financial burden.

Charges against Angulo have not yet been announced and are likely waiting until the initial investigation is concluded.

James O. Cunningham

Since 1977, personal injury lawyer James Cunningham has provided effective legal advocacy to people who are injured through the negligent actions of another person or entity throughout the Central Florida area. He fights to obtain recoveries for his clients’ physical and emotional pain and suffering and pursues his clients’ personal injury cases with a commitment to excellence and impeccable preparation.