Hernando County, FL – A 27-year-old woman from Spring Hill was struck and killed Sunday night after exiting her vehicle to check on an injured opossum along a rural road, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).
The fatal accident occurred at approximately 9:50 p.m. on Hexam Road, east of Eskimo Curlew Road in Hernando County.
How the Incident Happened
Investigators said the woman was a passenger in a Toyota Camry driven by her husband. The couple had been traveling along Hexam Road when they stopped to check on an opossum that appeared injured on the roadside.
The woman exited the vehicle to attend to the animal but was struck by a Chrysler 300 driven by a 19-year-old man from Weeki Wachee as reported by ClickOrlando.
Emergency responders transported the woman to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Authorities have not released her name.
No Further Details Released
The FHP has not indicated whether the driver of the Chrysler will face charges or citations. The investigation remains ongoing, and no additional information has been made public at this time.
This tragedy comes just one month after a 77-year-old man in Florida was struck and killed on Interstate 95 while attempting to save a turtle from the roadway.
Risks of Roadside Emergencies
Safety experts warn that roadside environments—especially at night—pose significant dangers to pedestrians, even in low-traffic areas. Poor visibility, higher vehicle speeds, and driver distraction increase the risk of severe or fatal accidents.
If it is necessary to stop for an emergency or to assist an animal, officials recommend:
- Pulling completely off the roadway, preferably onto the shoulder or into a safe area
- Turning on hazard lights to alert other drivers
- Wearing reflective or bright-colored clothing if exiting the vehicle at night
- Contacting animal control or law enforcement to handle injured wildlife safely
Community Impact
Residents of Spring Hill and Hernando County have expressed condolences to the woman’s family, noting the unusual and heartbreaking circumstances of her death. The incident also highlights the need for public awareness about the dangers of stopping on roadways, even for compassionate reasons.
What steps do you believe should be taken to improve pedestrian and driver safety during roadside emergencies in Florida? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.
