Port Richey Teen Killed, 3 Friends Injured in Minivan Crash Near Lake Forest Drive

A 16-year-old Port Richey teen was killed and three of his friends were injured in a fiery collision Friday afternoon in Port Richey, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The teen was driving a 1996 Dodge Caravan south on Lake Forest Circle around 3 p.m. when he lost control of the minivan on a curve near Forest Lake Drive. The van exited the roadway and smashed into a tree, according to troopers.

The FHP said the minivan caught on fire and was engulfed in flames.

The driver suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Two 16-year-old passengers and one 17-year-old were transported to Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point.

One of the 16-year-olds, who was the front seat passenger in the Dodge Caravan, was transferred to Tampa General Hospital because of the severity of her injuries, according to troopers.

Reports indicate that the girl may not walk for a few months because her legs were so severely burned. She suffered a broken femur, dislocated knee and a broken ankle.

A Good Samaritan rescued all three passengers from the burning vehicle.

If you or someone you love has suffered a serious injury or death in an auto accident that involved a car fire, you may have grounds for a claim against the vehicle manufacturer in addition to any claim against other negligent parties involved in the collision. A Pasco County Auto Accident Lawyer at Whittel & Melton can help you determine if you have a valid claim and what steps you need to take next to obtain the justice you deserve. Despite how the fire started, we can pursue maximum financial compensation from all negligent parties who may have played a role in the collision.

Car fire accidents can result in all types of physical injuries and leave victims suffering from severe emotional scarring. We are dedicated to helping car crash burn injury victims and their families obtain full damages for pain and suffering, emotional trauma, medical bills, property damage and all other losses related to the accident.

We can assist with all types of car fires, including those that resulted from any cause, such as:

• Defective Wiring
• Defective Fuel Lines
• Malfunctions with Seat Heaters
• Defects with Exhaust Systems
• Fuel Cell Rupture

If you or a loved one has been involved in a Pasco County auto accident that resulted in a car fire or lead to serious burn injuries, please contact us today online or call 727-847-2299 to learn how we can help you with your case. We can provide you with a free and honest evaluation of your claim and make sure your understand all of your legal options.