Honda Civic driver struck a man near Lake Worth Beach and fled the scene
November 15, 2025 | Lake Worth Beach, FL
A tragic pedestrian accident claimed the life of 77-year-old Michael Carmen Brennan on Saturday evening in Palm Beach County.
Michael Carmen Brennan, 77, died after a Honda Civic struck him at North Dixie Highway and 16th Avenue North in Lake Worth Beach.
What Happened in the Crash?
According to the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office, the incident occurred around 5:57 p.m. at the intersection of North Dixie Highway and 16th Avenue North. Brennan was struck by the front left side of a Honda Civic driven by a 63-year-old woman from Lantana. The crash caused a "fender vault," propelling him into the air. The driver fled the scene without stopping.
Brennan was rushed to St. Mary’s Medical Center in West Palm Beach, where he succumbed to his injuries at 6:40 p.m. Investigators found no evidence that alcohol or drugs played a role in Brennan's actions.
- Date and Time: Nov. 15, 2025, approximately 5:57 p.m.
- Location: North Dixie Highway and 16th Avenue North, Lake Worth Beach, FL
- Victim: Michael Carmen Brennan, 77
- Vehicle Involved: Honda Civic
- Driver: 63-year-old woman from Lantana fled the scene
- Outcome: Fatal injuries; pronounced dead at the hospital
Why Do Hit-and-Run Accidents Occur?
Hit-and-run incidents often stem from factors like driver panic, fear of legal consequences, or impairment. In pedestrian cases, high speeds and poor visibility at intersections can exacerbate risks. The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office is investigating, with potential criminal charges pending against the driver.
Authorities estimate that hit-and-run crashes contribute significantly to road fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were about 737,100 such incidents in the United States in 2015—one every 43 seconds. By 2016, hit-and-run fatalities reached a record 2,049.
Year |
Hit-and-Run Crashes |
Fatalities |
Source |
|---|
2015 |
737,100 |
Not Available |
NHTSA |
2016 |
Not Available |
2,049 |
NHTSA |
Legal Insights
In cases such as this, families may pursue civil remedies alongside any criminal proceedings. Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal and a national analyst for Newsline, shared her perspective on handling these situations.
“Separate from criminal charges, a victim’s family may be entitled to compensation through a civil lawsuit against the responsible party,” said Bond. “An attorney can re-interview witnesses, review surveillance footage, and secure phone records to build a strong case.”
Bond emphasized the role of legal support in navigating insurance claims and holding negligent drivers accountable.
- Compensation Options: Families could seek damages for medical costs, lost companionship, and emotional distress.
- Investigation Aid: Attorneys often collaborate with law enforcement to uncover evidence.
- Insurance Negotiations: Professionals help avoid lowball settlements from insurers.
- Accountability: Ensuring drivers face consequences promotes road safety.
Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal, highlighted the importance of professional guidance.
“It is vital for families to hire an attorney when filing a wrongful death claim,” Formica noted. “Insurance companies may push for quick, undervalued settlements, but an attorney advocates for fair compensation.”
Pending investigation outcomes, Brennan's family may explore a wrongful death claim covering funeral expenses, pain and suffering, and more.
How Can Families Protect Their Rights After a Crash?
Acting swiftly is crucial. Contacting legal professionals early allows for thorough evidence collection and timely filings. Newsline recommends consulting professionals to understand options without delay.
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If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one in a hit-and-run, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free, no-obligation consultation.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).