Shooting Causes Car Accident in Tampa
The most common causes of car accidents include distraction, intoxication, and speeding. However, car accidents may be caused by all kinds of other factors, including flying bullets. This became clear after a recent crash in Tampa, which police say occurred as a direct result of a nearby shooting. How do you pursue compensation in a situation like this? Could a Tampa car accident lawyer help?
Police Say Shooting Caused Car Crash in Tampa
In June of 2025, the Tampa Police reached out to the public and asked for their help in investigating a shooting. This shooting led directly to a car accident, and local authorities are searching for leads. Gunfire erupted near 18th Street and 25th Avenue at around 3:00 AM, and this caused a vehicle to be struck by bullets. This vehicle then veered off the road and crashed into a tree before flipping over.
Fortunately, no one inside the vehicle was struck by gunfire. However, they did suffer minor injuries in the crash, and the situation could have been much worse. It was not clear whether this vehicle was merely caught in the crossfire between two opposing parties, or whether it was the intended target. Police say unoccupied, parked vehicles were also struck by flying bullets.
Can I Sue if My Accident Was Not Caused by Another Driver?
In a situation like this, injured parties may be wondering how they can pursue compensation for missed wages, medical bills, and other damages. If no other motorist caused your accident, you may still have the right to pursue compensation. The most obvious source of compensation is a no-fault auto accident claim, which (as its name implies) can provide compensation regardless of whether anyone actually “caused” your crash.
That being said, a car accident lawsuit may still be possible even if no other motorist caused your crash. For example, you might be able to sue a local municipality for creating confusing signs, poorly-maintained roads, or dangerous construction sites. A car accident does not necessarily need to be caused by another driver in order to lead to a lawsuit.
Injuries Caused by Gun Violence Are Not Covered Under Car Insurance
With all that said, it is worth noting that injuries caused by stray bullets are probably not covered by a standard auto insurance policy in Florida. These policies only cover injuries caused specifically by car accidents. However, if the gunfire causes you to crash your vehicle, the subsequent crash-related injuries (but not gunshot wounds) should be covered by your insurance.
Can a Tampa Car Accident Lawyer Help After a Crash?
A Tampa car accident lawyer may be able to help you pursue compensation after a serious crash. With help from experienced car accident lawyers, you may be able to cover your missed income and medical bills even if you can’t sue anyone in particular. Florida’s no-fault system allows you to pursue compensation in many situations, so contact Anderson & Anderson today for further guidance.
Source:
abcactionnews.com/news/region-hillsborough/overnight-tampa-shooting-leading-to-car-crash-under-investigation
