Naples, FL (September 24, 2018) - A woman was killed in a rear-end crash on US 41, near Pine Ridge Road in Naples. The crash took place just after 4:30 pm on Saturday, September 22nd.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, 55-year-old Russel Mechaluk was driving an Acura ILX with 45-year-old Marie Antoinette Mechaluk as a passenger. The Acura was traveling in a northbound direction on US 41. At the same time, a Honda Accord driven by 20-year-old Carlos Gutierrez was also traveling northbound on US 41.
Gutierrez attempted to change lanes but struck the rear passenger side of the Acura in the process. The Acura went into the media and collided with a palm tree. Marie Mechaluk was rushed to NCH Baker Hospital Downtown where she later died from her injuries. Russel Mechaluk suffered minor injuries as did Carlos Gutierrez.
Florida Highway Patrol says that charges are pending in the crash.
This is a very tragic accident and our thoughts are with everyone affected.
In Florida, fatal car accidents occur approximately every three hours, and many fatal accidents involve traffic violations of some type. It appears from the initial reports in this case that there may have been an improper or unsafe lane change which caused the accident. Even the most seemingly minor traffic infraction can have deadly consequences. In such cases, anyone injured as a result of the other driver's negligence has the right to bring a personal injury claim. In cases of fatal accidents, a wrongful death claim may be pursued by surviving family members.
At Rubenstein Law, our attorneys are well versed in Florida accident law. We have the experience and skills needed to help you through the most difficult times. For a free consultation, call us today at 1-800 FL-Legal.
Rubenstein Law is dedicated to serving individuals & families injured by the negligence of others. We know first-hand the heartbreak that can be left behind after an accident. In our news blog, we write about cases of personal injury relevant to our line of work, and we report on news of judgments and appellate cases that affect the rights of personal injury claimants. We feel a responsibility to raise awareness of the injury and tragic loss of life occurring across our state every day.
Note: These posts are created using publicly available (secondary) sources, information has not been independently verified. If you see information that should be corrected, please bring it to our attention and we will make adjustments.