Family settles lawsuit in tragic death of relative who was killed while riding as a passenger in taxi

Family settles lawsuit in tragic death of relative who was killed while riding as a passenger in taxi

On November 12, 2002, Bryant Pendleton was a passenger in a taxicab operated by Central Taxi Service. The taxi traveling northbound on I-95 in Broward County was struck by a tractor-trailer operated by Midnight Trucking and a second tractor-trailer owned by Victory Trucking. As a result of the crash, Bryant Pendleton was burned to death.

The tractor-trailer operated by Valdez traveling in the left center lane failed to obey traffic controls, which call for trucks to be in the center lane. The truck operated by Ramos jack knifed during the crash. The police investigation determined that the truck's brakes were not properly maintained and that the signals and brake lights were not in working order. Additionally, Ramos it was determined, was following other vehicles too closely and had not been properly trained by his employer. Valdez it was determined, was also not qualified or trained to adhere to standards and laws regarding operating a motor vehicle.

"Anyone traveling on highways needs to be aware of the dangers posed by improper maintenance, training, the lack of adherence to safety standards by operators/owners of tractor-trailers," said attorney Edward Ricci. "What we have here is two behemoth vehicles owning the road without regard to human life. People died in this crash and it could have been avoided. Though we have been able to settle this case favorably for the family, I continue to hope that drivers will be aware of these dangers," said Ricci.

Edward M. Ricci is a partner in the law firm of Ricci~Leopold, P.A. The firm founded in 1982, has five attorneys and is headquartered in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, with offices located at 2925 PGA Blvd. Edward Ricci can be contacted at 561-684-6500. Additional information about Ricci~Leopold, P.A. may be obtained from the firm's website at www.riccilaw.com.