Lake City, FL (August 2, 2025) – A pedestrian was seriously injured on Thursday afternoon, July 31, following a car crash near the intersection of Southwest Bascom Norris Dr and Southwest Tomoka Ter, prompting a police investigation and emergency response from local authorities.
The incident occurred when a 2010 Cadillac CTS, driven by Frank Daniel West, struck a pedestrian in the area. Officers from the Lake City Police Department arrived at the scene shortly after the collision was reported and immediately began assisting the injured individual. Emergency responders provided on-site care before transporting the pedestrian to a local hospital for further treatment. The victim sustained serious injuries, and their current condition has not been released.
While examining the crash scene, police observed significant front-end damage to the Cadillac, particularly on the front right side and windshield. West, the driver, was reportedly showing signs of impairment, including glassy eyes and sluggish movements. Based on physical evidence from the vehicle and West’s behavior, police arrested him after he was medically cleared.
West was transported to the Columbia County Detention Center, where he remains in custody. Charges are pending further investigation, and officials have not released the identity of the injured pedestrian.
Our thoughts are with the victim as they recover from this traumatic event.
Pedestrian Safety and Impaired Driving in Florida
This crash on Bascom Norris Dr is a stark reminder of the dangers pedestrians face on Florida roadways, particularly in areas lacking dedicated walkways or crossing signals. With a steady number of vehicle-versus-pedestrian incidents each year, law enforcement continues to stress the importance of both driver vigilance and pedestrian awareness.
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), the state saw over 9,500 pedestrian-involved crashes in 2024, with hundreds resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. Many of these incidents involved driver impairment or failure to yield, factors that remain under scrutiny in this Lake City case.
Pedestrian crashes often have lasting consequences. Victims may endure prolonged recovery periods, loss of income, and emotional trauma. In Florida, injured pedestrians have the legal right to pursue compensation if a driver’s negligence contributed to the collision. This may include reimbursement for medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term care.
Moreover, when alcohol or drug impairment is involved, the legal implications for the driver can be severe. Florida law holds impaired drivers accountable for damages and allows for criminal prosecution depending on the circumstances and severity of the incident.
As Lake City and other communities work to improve pedestrian safety through infrastructure and enforcement, public awareness and responsible driving remain the most effective tools for prevention.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a pedestrian crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.
