A car crashed into the Turning Tides wellness center located at 6672 Cortez Road West in Bradenton, Florida, at around 12:25 p.m. on Sunday. The driver, a senior citizen, reported that her vehicle's gas pedal got stuck, leading to the incident. Several individuals narrowly escaped serious injury, including an employee and a couple with a dog, while the driver was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
What Happened: Car Crashes Into Wellness Center
The accident occurred on September 8, 2026, when a vehicle driven by a senior citizen crashed into the Turning Tides wellness center at 6672 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. The crash happened around 12:25 p.m., a time when the business was usually closed. However, an employee, Lance Houia, was present for a client appointment. The Bradenton Police Department reported that the driver claimed her gas pedal got stuck, which may have led to the car jumping a concrete pylon and crashing through the storefront. Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene, and the driver was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Fortunately, no fatalities occurred, but the situation could have been much worse given the location and time.
According to Houia, it was a matter of seconds that saved him from being in the vehicle's path. Additionally, a couple with their dog was inside the business, and while they managed to avoid the vehicle, the woman suffered a minor puncture wound. Outside, the usual crowd at the neighboring Sage Biscuit Cafe had been moved indoors due to rain, preventing further injuries. The crash is being investigated to determine the exact cause and any contributing factors.
For more details, see the original report from ABC Action News.
Who Is Liable for This Crash?
Driver Negligence
In this incident, driver negligence appears to be a primary factor. The driver reported that her gas pedal got stuck, but investigators also consider the possibility that she may have mistakenly pressed the accelerator instead of the brake. Such errors can lead to significant liability for the driver, as they are responsible for maintaining control of their vehicle under Fla. Stat. § 316.1925.
Government Liability
If the investigation finds that road conditions or traffic signal issues contributed to the crash, there may be grounds for government liability. This could involve poor maintenance of the road or improper signage, which can be a factor in accidents, especially involving senior drivers.
Your Legal Rights Under Florida Law
In Florida, accident victims have specific rights under the law. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage is mandatory under Fla. Stat. § 627.736, providing initial medical and wage loss coverage regardless of fault. However, if serious injuries occur, victims may seek further compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. In such cases, Florida's modified comparative negligence law under Fla. Stat. § 768.81 applies, meaning that if you are found more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover damages.
If a similar incident results in a fatality, the Florida Wrongful Death Act (Fla. Stat. § 768.19) allows families to pursue a wrongful death claim. Such cases can include compensation for loss of companionship, future earnings, and funeral expenses.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Victims of car crashes in Florida can pursue various types of compensation depending on the circumstances of the accident and the extent of injuries. Here are the typical compensation ranges:
| Damage Type | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Medical bills and future care | $15000 to $100000 | Emergency, surgery, rehab, ongoing treatment |
| Lost wages and earning capacity | $10000 to $50000 | Past and future income loss |
| Pain and suffering | $20000 to $150000 | Physical pain, emotional distress, trauma |
| Wrongful death damages | N/A | Funeral costs, loss of companionship, financial support |
Critical Deadlines - Do Not Wait
It's crucial to act promptly following an accident. Evidence such as commercial vehicle black box data may be overwritten within 30 days, and surveillance footage from nearby businesses can be deleted within 60 to 90 days. Witnesses may move or forget details, and insurance companies start building their defense strategies immediately. Engaging with an experienced attorney helps secure necessary evidence and protects your claim.
Legal Theories That Apply to This Crash
Several legal theories might apply to this specific crash involving a vehicle crashing into a building:
Negligence: The driver may be found negligent if it is determined that a mistake, such as pressing the wrong pedal, caused the crash. This theory is foundational in determining liability.
Government Liability: If poor road conditions or inadequate signage contributed to the crash, government entities responsible for road maintenance or traffic control might be liable. This requires proving that the government's negligence directly contributed to the crash.
7 Immediate Steps to Protect Your Rights
- Seek medical care immediately - Even if you feel fine, delayed injuries are common. Gaps in treatment can hurt your claim.
- Obtain the FHP crash report number - Request the full report as it contains vital information about the accident.
- Photograph everything at the scene - Capture road markings, skid marks, vehicle positions, and any visible injuries.
- Do not speak to the at-fault driver's insurance company - Anything you say can be used to reduce your claim; consult an attorney first.
- Preserve your vehicle - Do not authorize repairs before an accident reconstructionist or attorney inspects it.
- Save every receipt and medical record - Keep all documentation related to the crash and your injuries.
- Contact a personal injury attorney immediately - Your deadline is September 08 2028, and early action is crucial to protect evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sue after a car crash into a building in Bradenton Florida?
Yes, if you or your property were damaged due to someone else's negligence, you may have the right to sue for compensation. This includes damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An experienced attorney can evaluate your case and advise you on the best path forward.
How much is a Bradenton car accident settlement worth in 2026?
The value of a car accident settlement varies based on factors such as the severity of injuries, the degree of property damage, and the impact on your life. Settlements can range from thousands to millions of dollars depending on these variables. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney can provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific situation.
What if the at-fault driver had no insurance in Florida?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you may still recover damages through your uninsured motorist coverage if you carry it. This coverage is designed to protect you in such scenarios. It's important to review your policy and understand your coverage limits.
How long does a Florida wrongful death lawsuit take?
Wrongful death lawsuits can take several months to years to resolve, depending on the complexity of the case and whether it goes to trial. Factors influencing this timeline include the availability of evidence, the court's schedule, and the willingness of parties to settle.
What is the statute of limitations for car accidents in Florida?
The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit in Florida is two years from the date of the accident, per Fla. Stat. § 95.11(4)(a). For wrongful death claims, the deadline is also two years from the date of death, according to Fla. Stat. § 95.11(4)(d).
Should I accept the insurance company's first settlement offer?
Insurance companies often offer low settlements initially to minimize their payout. It's typically in your best interest to consult with an attorney before accepting any offer to ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf and help you understand the true value of your claim.
Does Florida have a cap on damages in car accident cases?
Florida does not have a cap on economic damages in car accident cases, such as medical bills and lost wages. However, there are caps on non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases, not applicable to car accidents. Consulting with an attorney helps clarify what damages you can claim.
What is comparative negligence and how does it affect my Florida car accident case?
Comparative negligence means that if you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which bars recovery if you are more than 50% at fault.
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