Driver in Naples Car Crash Identified

By Orlando Personal Injury Attorney on December 23, 2014

The elderly driver involved in Monday afternoon’s crash near East Naples has been identified as John Baptiste Prata of Naples. According to Florida Highway Patrol, Prata was attempting to make a left turn onto US 41 heading east when he pulled in front of a westbound 1986 Crown Victoria. The Crown Victoria struck Mr. Prata’s 2002 Chrysler Sebring directly on the driver’s side door.

Another westbound car following the Crown Victoria did not have time to stop and also struck the rear of the vehicle when it collided with the Chrysler. Prata was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. The driver of the Crown Victoria was taken to Lee Memorial Hospital.

It was midafternoon at the time of the accident, and weather and road conditions were good. It is unknown if Prata saw the oncoming vehicle or perhaps thought the oncoming vehicle would stop at the intersection. Authorities believe that alcohol was not a factor in the accidents and all vehicle occupants were wearing their seat belts.

Unfortunately, this will most likely not be the last vehicle accident­related death on Florida roadways this year. The Florida Highway Patrol estimates that the total death toll on Florida roads will exceed 2000 in 2014. While many of these accidents can be related to illegal behavior such as speeding, reckless driving or drinking and driving, others may be attributed to minor errors in judgment – with horrible consequences.

The best way to avoid an auto accident is to practice safe driving behaviors and to be courteous to your fellow drivers on the road. Law enforcement encourages motorists to remain alert behind the wheel, avoid taking phone calls, texting or other distracted behaviors while driving. If someone is driving aggressively, do not provoke the other driver and report any dangerous driving situations to Florida Law Enforcement.

If you or a loved one have been injured in an auto accident, contact the Law Offices of James O. Cunningham today at 877-FL-INJURY (877-354-6587).

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.