Panama City Beach, FL (August 20, 2025) – A serious single-vehicle accident on the Hathaway Bridge Tuesday evening left three teenagers hospitalized, including one in critical condition, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred around 8:00 p.m. as a red Ford Mustang traveled westbound on U.S. Highway 98 across the Hathaway Bridge. Authorities report that the vehicle lost control while crossing the bridge, spinning across multiple lanes before striking a curb and overturning. The vehicle eventually came to a stop after crashing into a tree.
Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene and transported all three occupants—teenagers from Panama City—to a nearby hospital. Two of the teens suffered serious injuries, while the third, a backseat passenger, was reported to be in critical condition.
There were no other vehicles involved in the crash, and no other injuries were reported. The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances of the collision, including what may have caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle.
Our thoughts are with the injured teens and their families, and we hope for a full and swift recovery for all.
Teen Driving Accidents in Florida
Tuesday’s crash on the Hathaway Bridge is a sobering reminder of how dangerous high-speed single-vehicle accidents can be—especially when young drivers are involved. Teen drivers face an increased risk on the road due to inexperience, higher rates of distraction, and greater likelihood of losing control in sudden or unfamiliar conditions.
Bridges like Hathaway, which spans a major waterway and connects Panama City with Panama City Beach, often carry fast-moving traffic and limited shoulders, leaving little room for correction once control is lost. In this case, the red Ford Mustang spun across multiple lanes before flipping over—a sign of potentially excessive speed or sudden overcorrection.
Rollovers and impacts with fixed objects, such as trees, are particularly dangerous and frequently lead to serious or life-threatening injuries. The critical condition of the backseat passenger highlights the heightened vulnerability of occupants who may not be wearing seatbelts, or who are seated in the least-protected area of the vehicle during a rollover.
Florida continues to see a troubling number of crashes involving teen drivers. Statewide safety campaigns emphasize the importance of driver education, proper seatbelt use, and limiting distractions—such as mobile phones or multiple teen passengers. This crash will likely prompt renewed focus on these preventative measures, particularly in Bay County and surrounding communities.
The aftermath of a serious accident can be overwhelming for victims and families—especially when teens are involved. Medical decisions, emotional trauma, and questions about what happens next often arise quickly, and it’s essential to seek trusted support.
If your family has been affected by a crash like this, you don’t have to face the uncertainty alone.
When young lives are on the line, every moment counts. At Local Accident Reports, we’re committed to helping families navigate the aftermath of serious crashes with care and clarity. From connecting with local medical providers to exploring legal support options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Reach out today and take the first step toward recovery and peace of mind.
