A tragic hit-and-run collision occurred in Northwest Miami-Dade on the night of September 12, 2026, claiming the life of a 10-year-old girl and leaving her brother critically injured. The incident took place at Northwest 117th Street and Seventh Avenue when a vehicle struck the children riding an electric bicycle while making a left-hand turn.
What Happened: Hit-and-Run Tragedy in NW Miami-Dade
The heartbreaking accident occurred on Wednesday night at the intersection of Northwest 117th Street and Seventh Avenue. A vehicle, yet to be identified, was making a left-hand turn when it collided with a 10-year-old girl and her brother, who were riding an electric bicycle. Tragically, the young girl succumbed to her injuries, and her brother remains in critical condition. The driver fled the scene, and authorities are currently investigating the incident. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, but despite their efforts, the young girl's life could not be saved. The local community has since created a makeshift memorial at the crash site to honor her memory.
Who Is Liable for This Crash?
Driver Negligence
The primary party responsible in this tragic accident is the unidentified driver who failed to stop after the collision. Hit-and-run incidents are a severe form of negligence, and under Florida law, leaving the scene of an accident without providing aid or information is a criminal offense.
Your Legal Rights Under Florida Law
Florida law provides specific protections and avenues for compensation for victims of hit-and-run accidents. Under the Florida Wrongful Death Act (Fla. Stat. § 768.19), families of deceased victims may pursue claims for their loss, including funeral expenses and loss of companionship. Additionally, the state's comparative negligence rule (Fla. Stat. § 768.81) allows recovery of damages even if the victim is partially at fault, as long as they are not more than 50% responsible.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Victims and their families may be eligible for several types of compensation. These can include medical expenses, lost wages, and more. The table below outlines typical compensation ranges:
| Damage Type | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Medical bills and future care | $150,000 to $500,000 | Emergency, surgery, rehab, ongoing treatment |
| Lost wages and earning capacity | $50,000 to $200,000 | Past and future income loss |
| Pain and suffering | $200,000 to $1,000,000 | Physical pain, emotional distress, trauma |
| Wrongful death damages | $500,000 to $3,000,000 or more | Funeral costs, loss of companionship, financial support |
Critical Deadlines - Do Not Wait
It is essential to act quickly to preserve evidence and protect your rights. Commercial vehicle black boxes overwrite data within 30 days, and surveillance footage is typically deleted within 60 to 90 days. Witnesses may move, and their memories fade, while insurance companies start building their defenses immediately.
Legal Theories That Apply to This Crash
Several legal theories apply to this hit-and-run accident. Negligence is evident as the driver failed to stop and render aid. The wrongful death statute allows the victim's family to pursue compensation for their loss. Government liability could be considered if road conditions or traffic signal issues contributed to the accident.
7 Immediate Steps to Protect Your Rights
- Seek medical care immediately - Even if you feel fine, delayed injuries are common, and gaps in treatment can hurt claims.
- Obtain the FHP crash report number - Request the full report for documentation and evidence.
- Photograph everything at the scene - Capture road markings, skid marks, vehicle positions, and injuries.
- Do not speak to the at-fault driver's insurance company - Without an attorney, anything you say can be used to reduce your claim.
- Preserve your vehicle - Do not authorize repairs until an accident reconstructionist or attorney inspects it.
- Save every receipt, medical record, bill, and correspondence - Keep a comprehensive record related to the crash.
- Contact a personal injury attorney immediately - Your deadline is September 12, 2028, and early action protects critical evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sue after a hit-and-run accident in Miami, Florida?
Yes, victims of hit-and-run accidents in Miami, Florida can pursue legal action against the negligent party once they are identified. Filing a claim can help recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses. Engaging an experienced attorney can aid in navigating the legal process and ensuring your rights are protected.
How much is a Miami car accident settlement worth in 2026?
The value of a car accident settlement in Miami can vary significantly based on factors like the severity of injuries, liability, and available insurance coverage. Settlements can range from tens of thousands to millions of dollars. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can provide a more accurate estimate based on specific case details.
What if the at-fault driver had no insurance in Florida?
If the at-fault driver lacks insurance, victims may seek compensation through their uninsured motorist coverage or other applicable policies. An attorney can assist in identifying all potential sources of recovery and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
How long does a Florida wrongful death lawsuit take?
A wrongful death lawsuit in Florida can take anywhere from several months to several years to resolve, depending on the complexity of the case and court schedules. Early legal intervention can streamline the process and help secure a favorable outcome.
What is the statute of limitations for car accidents in Florida?
In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident is two years from the date of the accident. For wrongful death claims, the deadline is also two years. Missing these deadlines can bar you from seeking any compensation.
Should I accept the insurance company's first settlement offer?
It is generally advisable not to accept the first settlement offer from an insurance company as it may not fully cover your losses. Consulting with an attorney before accepting any offer can help ensure that you receive fair and adequate compensation.
Does Florida have a cap on damages in car accident cases?
Florida does not impose a cap on economic or non-economic damages in car accident cases. However, punitive damages, which are rare, may be capped in certain circumstances. An attorney can provide guidance on potential recoverable damages in your case.
What is comparative negligence and how does it affect my Florida car accident case?
Comparative negligence in Florida means that your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident. If you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you may be barred from recovering damages altogether. Legal advice can help you understand and navigate these complexities.
What if road conditions contributed to the crash?
If road conditions or traffic signal issues contributed to your accident, government entities responsible for road maintenance and safety could be held liable. An attorney can help investigate these factors and determine if a government liability claim is viable in your case.
How can I protect my rights after a hit-and-run?
To protect your rights after a hit-and-run, act quickly to gather evidence, seek medical attention, and consult with an attorney. Taking these steps can help preserve your ability to claim compensation while the investigation is ongoing.
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