funeral procession crash

Legal responsibilities and considerations

Funeral processions in Florida are granted special privileges on the road, but they come with serious responsibilities and risks. If you or a loved one have been involved in a funeral procession crash, understanding the legal framework and acting promptly is essential.

Contact our skilled Florida car accident lawyers at (561) 655-1990 for legal advice and support.

Understanding the right of way for funeral processions

Any vehicle in a procession, identified by its lighted headlights and placards, is treated as a single entity, essentially like one long vehicle. The procession, often led by a hearse or an escort vehicle with flashing lights, has the legal right to proceed through intersections, even when traffic signals would otherwise suggest stopping. This right of way honors the solemnity of the occasion, but it also increases the risk of accidents when other drivers are unaware or fail to yield.

For example, under Florida Statute § 316.1974, funeral processions have special allowances. Vehicles outside the procession must yield, even if they have a green light. However, the vehicles in the procession must still drive safely and compactly, as failing to do so could lead to dangerous gaps that confuse other motorists. This is why a procession led recklessly or at high speeds can still be held liable for accidents.

Risks involved in funeral procession crashes

Despite the legal right of way, funeral processions are not immune from the hazards of the road. Accidents can happen if procession drivers or outside motorists misunderstand their responsibilities. One of the most common causes of a funeral procession crash is when a non-participating driver misjudges the procession’s movement or tries to cut through the line, leading to collisions.

Another risk occurs when the drivers in the procession don’t keep up with the lead vehicle, leaving large gaps. This causes confusion for other drivers, who may not realize the gap is part of the procession, causing them to enter the intersection at the wrong time. Moreover, some drivers in a procession might rush through red lights to stay close to the group, creating additional risks.

Funeral home responsibilities in managing the procession

Florida law also imposes a duty on the funeral home organizing the procession. Funeral directors must manage the convoy to ensure it operates safely and without causing unnecessary traffic disruptions. The lead vehicle is responsible for maintaining a steady, manageable speed so that the following cars remain compact and avoid large gaps. Funeral homes may provide additional vehicles to block intersections, ensuring a clear and safe path for the convoy.

If a funeral home fails to manage a procession safely, leading to a crash, they may be held liable under Florida negligence laws. For example, if the lead vehicle speeds excessively, causing confusion and leading to an accident, the funeral home could face legal consequences for failing to ensure a safe procession.

Legal considerations for filing a claim after a funeral procession crash

If you are injured in a funeral procession crash, your legal options will depend on your role in the accident:

  • If you were part of the procession, you may have a claim if another motorist failed to yield
  • If you were an outsider and the procession was managed negligently, you could potentially hold the funeral home or another negligent driver accountable.

In either case, seeking legal guidance is essential. At Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath, we specialize in navigating the complexities of personal injury claims, including those involving funeral processions. Our experienced attorneys will examine whether negligence played a role in the crash and help you determine the appropriate steps to seek compensation for your injuries.