Woman Killed In Multi-Vehicle Crash

When in a crash, your safety should be of utmost importance. You will likely need to exit your vehicle to get information from the other drivers. But doing so can lead to subsequent crashes, injuries, and even fatalities.

Sadly, this was recently the case in Hillsborough County. A woman was killed after she exited her vehicle after a crash. The fatal crash occurred on the evening of August 24 along the eastbound side of I-4 near mile marker 6.

The accident occurred when a 16-year-old driver in a Honda Civic lost control on the slick, wet roadway and struck a concrete barrier. This caused the vehicle to spin into the travel lanes, where it was subsequently struck by a Toyota Corolla driven by the 20-year-old woman, which then came to rest in the median.

After the initial collision, the Orlando woman exited her Corolla. At the same time, a 24-year-old man from Lakeland was driving a Toyota Camry in an attempt to avoid the Honda Civic. His vehicle rotated during evasion and struck the woman outside her car before hitting the median barrier. The 20-year-old woman died at the accident scene.

Dangers of Secondary Collisions

Subsequent crashes, also known as secondary collisions, occur when an initial accident sets off conditions for additional impacts. These events are common on high-speed roadways and can cause injuries or fatalities even more severe than the first crash.

Key dangers include:

• Increased risk to occupants. People who exit their vehicles are highly exposed to being struck.
• Chain-reaction collisions. Stopped or slowed traffic often triggers multi-vehicle pileups.
• Reduced driver awareness. Onlookers may be distracted by the crash scene, leading to more accidents.
• Limited escape options. Narrow roads or congested lanes leave little room to avoid further collisions.
• Emergency responder safety. Police, EMTs, and firefighters are at risk while managing the scene.
• Worsening injuries. A second impact can be devastating, especially if airbags and safety features have already deployed.

FAQs About Subsequent Crashes

Q: What causes most secondary crashes?
 A: They often happen because drivers don’t react in time to slowed or stopped traffic after an accident. Poor visibility, high speeds, and distracted driving also play a major role.

Q: Where are secondary crashes most common?
A: Interstates and highways see the most secondary collisions due to higher speeds, heavier traffic, and limited escape routes. They’re also common in work zones and during poor weather conditions.

Q: What should you do to avoid being in a secondary crash?
 A: Stay inside your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened, switch on hazard lights, and if possible, move your car to the shoulder or a safe area. Call 911 right away and wait for help in a protected spot.

Contact Us Today

While many people survive initial car crashes, it’s important to keep in mind that subsequent accidents are often tragic in nature. A person may suffer catastrophic injuries or even fatality.

In a crash? Get the legal help you need from the Kissimmee auto accident lawyers at Draper Law Office. Our team will help you navigate the complexities of Florida law. Schedule a consultation today by calling (407) 743-6628 or filling out the online form.

Source:

clickorlando.com/traffic/2025/08/25/orlando-woman-20-struck-killed-on-i-4-after-getting-out-of-her-car-following-crash/