Miss Teen USA Contestant Kadance Fredericksen Killed in Florida Car Crash

The Florida community is mourning the devastating loss of Kadance Fredericksen, an 18-year-old Miss Teen USA contestant who tragically lost her life in a head-on collision with a tractor-trailer in Santa Rosa County.

Fredericksen, who held the title of Miss Okaloosa County Teen USA, was described as a bright and ambitious young woman with aspirations of becoming a veterinarian. She had recently been accepted into nine colleges and was known for her passion for advocacy, particularly for children in foster care.

Her tragic passing has left family, friends, and the pageant community heartbroken, as tributes continue to pour in for a young woman who left an indelible impact on those around her.

Details of the Fatal Crash

The fatal accident occurred on Monday, February 17, 2025, at around 1:30 p.m., at the intersection of State Road 4 and Hurricane Lake Road in Santa Rosa County.

According to a Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) press release, Fredericksen was traveling in her vehicle when it collided head-on with a tractor-trailer. The 56-year-old truck driver from Milton, Florida, sustained minor injuries in the crash.

Authorities have stated that the FHP Traffic Homicide and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit is conducting a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

While the official cause of the accident has yet to be determined, head-on collisions involving large commercial trucks are among the most devastating types of accidents, often resulting in severe or fatal injuries.

Common Causes of Fatal Truck Accidents

Truck accidents are among the most deadly types of motor vehicle crashes due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. Fatal truck accidents often involve complex liability issues, as multiple parties—such as the truck driver, trucking company, or vehicle manufacturer—may share responsibility.

Some of the most common causes of fatal truck crashes include:

• Driver Fatigue – Truck drivers often work long hours, and fatigue can impair their ability to react to hazards.
• Distracted Driving – Texting, using a GPS, or other distractions can lead to deadly crashes.
• Speeding and Reckless Driving – Truck drivers under pressure to meet deadlines may speed or drive aggressively.
• Drunk or Drug-Impaired Driving – Some drivers rely on stimulants to stay awake, leading to impaired judgment.
• Poor Truck Maintenance – Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, and mechanical failures can cause catastrophic accidents.
• Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo – Shifting cargo can make trucks unstable and difficult to control.

Legal Options After a Fatal Truck Accident in Florida

Losing a loved one in a fatal truck accident is a devastating and life-altering experience. While no legal action can replace the loss of a family member, a wrongful death claim can provide financial relief and hold responsible parties accountable for their negligence. If you are considering filing a wrongful death claim in Florida, it is important to understand the process, who is eligible to file, what compensation may be available, and the legal requirements involved.

In Florida, wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the date of death under Florida Statutes § 95.11(4)(d). This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, is critical—if a lawsuit is not filed within this timeframe, the family may lose the right to pursue compensation.

A wrongful death claim is brought by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. This person is typically named in the deceased’s will or estate plan, but if no such document exists, the court will appoint a personal representative.

The claim is filed on behalf of the deceased’s survivors, which may include:

• The surviving spouse
• Children of the deceased (minor children typically receive higher compensation)
• Parents of the deceased (especially if the deceased was a minor or had no spouse/children)
• Other dependent family members, such as siblings or blood relatives who were financially dependent on the deceased

Florida Truck Accident Attorney

Losing a loved one in a truck accident is a heartbreaking experience, and navigating the legal system during such a difficult time can be overwhelming. Understanding how wrongful death claims work can help families make informed decisions about seeking justice and financial relief after a tragedy.

If you have lost a family member in a fatal truck accident, it is essential to explore your legal options and understand your rights under Florida law. Every wrongful death case is unique, and ensuring that responsible parties are held accountable can help prevent future tragedies while providing financial security for surviving loved ones.

Call Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm at (305) 638-4143 for a free consultation. You can also complete our online form to schedule a virtual or in-person consultation.