On the evening of February 10, 2025, a devastating pedestrian accident in Sarasota, Florida, claimed the lives of two young children and left their mother critically injured. The crash occurred near SR 683 (North Washington Boulevard/U.S. 301) and 7th Street , in what police initially classified as a hit-and-run. As the community grieves, families across Florida are asking important questions about driver responsibility, pedestrian safety, and how civil justice can be pursued after such a catastrophic loss.
According to Fox13 News, the crash occurred when a 73-year-old woman driving a white Lexus ES300 struck a 29-year-old mother and her two children—a 2-year-old and a 5-month-old—as they were crossing the street. The mother was pushing a stroller at the time. Tragically, the mother and two children all died from their injuries.
Pedestrians Not in a Crosswalk Are Still Protected Under Florida Law
Police confirmed that the family was not in a marked crosswalk at the time of the crash. However, that fact alone does not eliminate the driver’s legal responsibility. Florida law requires all drivers to exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians, even outside designated crosswalks. This duty is especially critical during nighttime hours, in residential or mixed-use areas where pedestrians may be present.
At Dannheisser Injury Law, we understand that pedestrian crashes often involve nuanced legal questions. But one thing is always clear: drivers must operate their vehicles responsibly, attentively, and with full awareness of their surroundings. When they fail to do so—and the consequences are fatal—they can and should be held accountable.
A Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accident — What We Know So Far
Immediately after the crash, the driver of the Lexus fled the scene without rendering aid or contacting law enforcement. As reported by Fox13 News, this prompted an extensive investigation by the Sarasota Police Department. Thanks to surveillance footage and eyewitness statements, investigators were able to quickly identify the vehicle and its owner.
The 73-year-old woman believed to be responsible has since been located and is cooperating with police. At this time, no criminal charges have been filed, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Civil Claims Are Separate from Criminal Charges
While criminal proceedings have begun, families impacted by this crash still have the right to pursue civil justice through a wrongful death and personal injury claim. Civil cases are independent of criminal prosecution and serve a different purpose: to secure financial accountability and relief for the victims and their families.
In a pedestrian accident resulting in death or catastrophic injury, civil claims can help cover:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Medical expenses
- Loss of companionship
- Pain and suffering
- Future loss of income or parental support
You can learn more about these types of claims by visiting our page on Sarasota pedestrian accident cases.
Time Is of the Essence for Sarasota Pedestrian Accidents
Under Florida law, the statute of limitations for wrongful death and personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the incident. However, gathering evidence—such as surveillance footage, witness testimony, and accident reconstruction—becomes significantly more difficult as time passes.
If you or someone you love has suffered due to a pedestrian accident, it’s important to speak with a qualified attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and begin building your case.
Dannheisser Injury Law Is Here to Help
The pain of losing a child or suffering a life-altering injury in a pedestrian accident is immeasurable. While no amount of legal action can undo what happened on that tragic night in Sarasota, it can provide answers, accountability, and the support families need to move forward.
If you have questions about your legal options following a fatal or serious pedestrian crash, we’re here to help. Contact Dannheisser Injury Law today at 941-365-7600, start a live chat on our website, or submit a confidential message through our contact form.
We will stand beside you every step of the way, and we will not stop until justice is served.
