A hit-and-run driver on Colonial Drive near Christmas severely injured a 25-year-old woman on August 27, 2026. Jasmin Selby lost her left leg and sustained other serious injuries when an SUV struck her vehicle and fled the scene.
What Happened: Hit-and-Run on Colonial Drive
On the morning of August 27, 2026, Jasmin Selby pulled her car over onto the shoulder of eastbound Colonial Drive, intending to retrieve her phone. Tragically, a witness described seeing an SUV strike Selby as she stood outside her vehicle. The driver immediately fled, leaving Selby with life-altering injuries. Florida Highway Patrol is actively investigating and seeking the public’s help in identifying the vehicle and driver involved in this incident. For more information, visit FOX 35 Orlando.
Who Is Liable for This Crash?
Driver Negligence
The driver who fled the scene is primarily liable for the injuries sustained by Jasmin Selby. Leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense under Florida law, and such negligent behavior compounds the consequences of the crash.
Government Liability
If road conditions contributed to the inability to safely pull over, local government entities could share liability. However, this would require evidence that the road was improperly maintained or lacked adequate signage.
Your Legal Rights Under Florida Law
In Florida, victims of car accidents are entitled to seek compensation for their injuries. Under Fla. Stat. § 627.736, Florida's no-fault insurance requires personal injury protection (PIP) coverage to pay certain medical expenses. Victims can also pursue additional damages if another party is at fault. Florida's comparative negligence rule, under Fla. Stat. § 768.81, means that any recovery is reduced by the victim's percentage of fault in the accident.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Victims can seek compensation for a variety of damages. Here is a typical range for each type:
| Damage Type | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Medical bills and future care | $150000 to $500000 | Emergency, surgery, rehab, ongoing treatment |
| Lost wages and earning capacity | $50000 to $200000 | Past and future income loss |
| Pain and suffering | $200000 to $1000000 | Physical pain, emotional distress, trauma |
Critical Deadlines - Do Not Wait
It is crucial to act quickly. Evidence like commercial vehicle black boxes and surveillance footage is often erased within 30 to 90 days. Witnesses may also become harder to locate over time, and memories fade.
Legal Theories That Apply to This Crash
Multiple legal theories could apply to this crash scenario. Negligence is clear, given the hit-and-run behavior. If there was any government liability due to road conditions, that would also play a role. Each theory would need specific evidence to support a claim in court.
7 Immediate Steps to Protect Your Rights
- Seek medical care immediately - Even if you feel fine, injuries can manifest later. Document all visits and treatments.
- Obtain the FHP crash report number - Request this report for detailed information about the incident.
- Photograph everything at the scene - Capture road conditions, vehicle positions, and any visible injuries for evidence.
- Do not speak to the at-fault driver's insurance company - Consult an attorney first to protect your claim.
- Preserve your vehicle - Delay repairs until an expert can inspect it.
- Save every receipt and record - Keep track of all expenses and communication related to the crash.
- Contact a personal injury attorney immediately - Early legal advice can preserve essential evidence and meet the deadline of August 27 2028.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sue after a hit-and-run in Orlando Florida?
Yes, you can file a lawsuit if you were injured in a hit-and-run accident in Orlando. An attorney can help identify liable parties and navigate the legal process.
How much is an Orlando car accident settlement worth in 2026?
The value of a settlement depends on the severity of injuries, medical costs, lost wages, and other factors. Settlements can range from thousands to millions of dollars.
What if the at-fault driver had no insurance in Florida?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured, victims can seek compensation from their own uninsured motorist coverage or file a lawsuit against the driver personally.
How long does a Florida wrongful death lawsuit take?
Wrongful death lawsuits can take several months to years, depending on the complexity of the case and whether it goes to trial.
What is the statute of limitations for car accidents in Florida?
In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the accident.
Should I accept the insurance company's first settlement offer?
It is often advisable not to accept the first offer, as it may not fully cover all damages. Consulting with an attorney can help ensure a fair settlement.
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, allowing full recovery based on proven losses.
What is comparative negligence and how does it affect my Florida car accident case?
Comparative negligence in Florida means that your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover damages.
What steps should I take after a hit-and-run accident on Colonial Drive?
Immediate steps include seeking medical attention, documenting the scene, reporting the incident to law enforcement, and contacting an attorney.
Are there special considerations for hit-and-run accidents in Florida?
Yes, identifying the driver is key, and uninsured motorist coverage may become crucial in these cases.
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