Deadly Lamborghini Accident in Lakeland
The Ledger reported that parts from the accident were found approximately 1,000 feet from the point of impact. This undoubtedly means that the Lamborghini was traveling at a high rate of speed. The posted speed limit is 40 mph. University Parkway is a new road constructed to serve the new university and links Lakeland and Auburndale. The Lamborghini was driven by 24 year old Tiffany Beene of Winter Haven and the vehicle was owned by Jonathan Hampton, 24, of Winter Haven. Beene and Hampton died as a result of the collision. The accident happened at the Lamborghini crossed over the grass median and into the path of the Nissan. The Nissan was driven by Linh Luu and Tan Phan was a passenger. They appear to have suffered significant injuries from the accident.
This is the type of accident where the conduct is so egregious that punitive damages may be appropriate. There can be no justification for driving at whatever rate of speed is required to throw parts 1,000 feet from the point of impact. The delta-v must have been incredible to cause that. It is unfortunate that two young people died as a result of this crash, however, it appears that the owner probably wanted to show off the speed of his vehicle to his young female companion and she likely had very little to no experience driving such a car. Even if she did happen to have experience, the appropriate place for that kind of driving is a racetrack and not on the street. Linh Luu and Tan Phan are lucky to be alive after this accident and have significant injury claims as a result of this crash. What is considered "fair value" for the injury claims involved in this case will likely be debatable. Moody Law has represented a number of seriously injured people in car accidents. In my opinion, "fair value" should take into consideration the insurance limits, the collectibility of any assets or trusts that the owner may have, and punitive damages for the outrageousness of the conduct. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, please consult a Central Florida car accident attorney for free advice. A consultation is always free at Moody Law.
