Panama City Beach, FL (February 6, 2025) – Two teenage girls sustained serious injuries in a devastating crash involving a golf cart and a suspected drunk driver in the Bay Point community on Tuesday evening.
Emergency responders from Panama City Beach quickly arrived at the scene after receiving reports of the collision. The Florida Highway Patrol’s preliminary investigation revealed that the driver of a vehicle traveling east on Wahoo crossed the center line and collided head-on with a westbound golf cart carrying the two girls. The impact was so severe that it ripped off the entire top of the golf cart, leaving behind only two feet of what remained.
The 16-year-old girl and her 15-year-old friend were both airlifted to USA Health University Hospital. One girl suffered two punctured lungs, while the other required surgery for severe jaw injuries. Fortunately, both teens are now in stable condition.
The driver responsible for the crash was arrested for DUI causing serious bodily injury. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Freya Himes, the sister of one of the victims, expressed relief that both girls survived the crash. "I’m just glad they’re both alive," Himes said. She, along with law enforcement officials, emphasized the dangers of impaired driving. "Don’t drive drunk; it kills people," Himes added. William Mathers, the traffic homicide supervisor for FHP, echoed this sentiment, urging drivers to make responsible choices behind the wheel.
Our thoughts are with the victims and their families as they begin the difficult road to recovery.
The Dangers of Impaired Driving in Florida
The heartbreaking accident in Panama City Beach is a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving, especially when it leads to collisions involving vulnerable road users like those in golf carts. Florida’s diverse transportation landscape includes everything from cars and trucks to bicycles and golf carts, making it crucial for drivers to remain alert and sober to prevent tragedies.
Golf carts are common in many Florida communities, especially in residential neighborhoods and vacation spots like Panama City Beach. While these vehicles are convenient for short trips, they offer minimal protection compared to standard vehicles. This makes collisions involving golf carts particularly dangerous, as seen in this recent crash where the entire top of the cart was torn off, causing life-threatening injuries to the teenage passengers.
Driving under the influence remains one of the leading causes of serious accidents in Florida. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, DUI-related crashes result in thousands of injuries and fatalities each year. The consequences of impaired driving extend beyond legal repercussions; they often result in irreversible harm to victims and lasting emotional trauma for their families.
In this case, the driver’s decision to drive while impaired caused catastrophic injuries to two young girls, leading to emergency surgeries and long-term recovery efforts. The emotional toll on the families, friends, and the broader community is immeasurable.
Raising awareness about the dangers of DUI and promoting responsible driving behaviors are critical steps in preventing future tragedies. Simple choices, like arranging a designated driver or using rideshare services, can save lives and prevent families from enduring the pain and suffering caused by preventable accidents.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a DUI-related accident, it’s essential to seek both medical and legal support. Local Accident Reports is committed to providing timely information and resources to assist victims and their families in navigating the aftermath of such life-altering events.
