Vacation, a family reunion, and what was meant to be a relaxing week ended in tragedy for a Springdale, Pennsylvania family who lost their 8-year-old girl in a boating accident.

The accident occurred on the St. Johns River near Palatka, Florida where the family had traveled for a family reunion. A 23-year-old cousin of the victim was attempting to steer the boat onto a lift. When she neared the dock, she accidentally put the boat in forward gear, causing it to lurch ahead.

The boat was forced under the dock and struck the 8-year-old passenger who was sitting in the front left of the boat. She died on the way to the hospital. No charges were filed against the driver and it was not reported whether a criminal investigation was underway.

This is a tragic accident that has left the community overwhelmed and in mourning. Teachers and students at her school were particularly affected as the school had already lost another student last fall when a kindergartner suffered a heart attack in front of some of his classmates.

The young girl was very social and active in her community, playing sports and was learning how to play guitar. She loved animals, especially dogs, and wanted to be a veterinarian.

After any fatal accident, the family may be eligible for wrongful death compensation against the insurance company or the driver. This can be sensitive in cases like this where the boat operator was a family member of the victim.

A wrongful death claim allows the family to collect compensation for medical costs, including the ambulance, pain and suffering of the victim before death, the personal companionship and loss of the family, as well as funeral expenses. While a lawsuit will never bring back a loved one, it can help them with the financial costs associated with negligent death.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, “Springdale child hits dock while riding on small boat,” Bill Zlatos, March 26, 2012.