Woman Killed When BBQ Smoker Detaches From SUV and Strikes Her Vehicle

By Orlando Personal Injury Attorney on June 7, 2011

A 41-year-old Orlando woman was killed on the evening of May 31 when a BBQ smoker being towed by a sports utility vehicle in front of her detached from its hitch and struck her vehicle. The accident occurred around 10:21 p.m. on Old Winter Garden Road near the intersection with Deleon Avenue when a smoker being towed by a 1998 Lincoln Navigator became detached. The smoker then traveled across Old Winter Garden Road and collided with the driver’s side of a 1988 Ford Mustang driven by the victim. Officials with the Florida Highway Patrol say that the woman died at the scene from her injuries, and charges are pending against the driver of the SUV.

People in Florida as well as visitors to our area tow many different types of trailers behind their vehicles. Most of the trailers carry different types of watercraft, all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles and passenger vehicles, and barbecue grills are also a common sight. However, no matter what is being towed, Florida has laws and regulations in place to ensure that loads are towed and secured properly to prevent tragedies like this one. Under Florida law, trailers of any kind must be equipped with functioning taillights and brake lights in addition to turn signals and reflectors.

Trailers are also required to have license lights and safety equipment such as cargo tie-downs, safety chains, breakaway brakes and other safety measures. If a trailer detaches from a vehicle at highway speeds, it becomes an uncontrolled battering ram and a deadly hazard to anyone nearby. Florida Highway Patrol accident investigators have not yet filed charges against the driver of the Navigator, but he could face multiple serious charges such as manslaughter, negligence and others in connection with this fatal accident. In many cases where a trailer detaches while being towed, proper procedures were not followed, and safety chains and other equipment were not used.

No amount of compensation from a court award or settlement can replace a life, but damages can help the victim’s family recoup burial costs, lost earning potential and other damages. If a close family member has been killed by an improperly secured trailer and you would like to speak with an experienced Orlando personal injury lawyer about your legal options, call 888-425-2004 or 407-425-2000 today. James O. Cunningham has been helping injured people since 1977 and has earned his reputation as a hardworking Orlando personal injury attorney by helping accident victims and their families receive the fair and just compensation they deserve. Call today to schedule a free consultation and get the legal representation you deserve.

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.