Orlando Bus Accident Leaves Six Injured
Driving is a privilege. Everyone should take that responsibility seriously. They should always follow the laws and obey the orders from the police and other law enforcement officials. Unfortunately, that’s not what a 52-year-old resident of Punta Gorda, Florida did.
Everett Amaral was driving a 2002 Ford Explorer on November 7, 2014 in the westbound lane of Silver Star Road in Orlando. Around 8 a.m., according to media reports, Amaral attempted to cross into the westbound lane. During that maneuver, he collided with the Lynx bus, causing a serious accident that endangered many lives. The bus was carrying 30 people. Six occupants in the bus suffered injuries in the accident. The bus driver, four passengers and Amaral were all taken to the hospital after the accident. It could have been worse.
As it turns out, Amaral was not legally allowed to be on the road. According to police, his license had been revoked in August of 2014 for medical reasons. He had suffered a stroke prior to the accident, and it was believed that Amaral suffered another medical stroke while driving on November 7 and that was the reason for the accident.
In Florida, a driver’s license is generally revoked for medical reasons when a problem is reported to Department of Motor Vehicles. Under the process, a board takes the complaint under review and, if there is enough information, the complaint goes before a medical advisory board. The board reviews the information and makes a recommendation. The license can be revoked at that time based on a decision by the board.
The crash blocked two lanes of Silver Star Road and caused traffic headaches for morning commuters. The accident is under investigation and charges will most likely be brought against Amaral. He was breaking the law when he got behind the wheel and could have seriously injured somebody when he struck the bus. Luckily, nobody was seriously injured.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident that was caused by a driver with a suspended license, contact the Law Offices of James O. Cunningham, P.A. immediately at 877-FL-INJURY (877-354-6587) for a free initial consultation.
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.