A Staff Sergeant assigned to Quincy, Florida, died in a PMV-4 mishap 14 November 2020 in Live Oak, Florida, at 1900 local. A Soldier was driving his private motor vehicle with two other Soldiers as passengers, returning to home station from IDT weapons qualification. According to the Florida Highway Patrol lead investigator, the Soldiers' vehicle was rear-ended by a drunk driver, resulting in both vehicles going off the road. One Soldier was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. The Soldier driving was flown to a local health center, where he is listed in critical condition. The other Soldier was transported to a local health center in stable condition with a contusion on his lung, then transported to the university medical center for further evaluation and treatment. The specific circumstances of the mishap, including speed, seat belt use, and alcohol and drugs as a contributing factor, are unknown at this time. The Florida Highway Patrol and Florida Army National Guard State Safety Office are conducting an ongoing investigation.
Since 2016, the Army has lost an average of 33 Soldiers a year to PMV-4 mishaps. This mishap is the seventh PMV-4 fatality of FY21.
1. Always wear your seat belt and ensure your passengers do the same.
2. Avoid distractions while operating a vehicle.
3. Your focus should be on the task of driving safely.
4. Pay attention to your surroundings, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area you’re driving.
5. Focus as far to your front as possible using peripheral vision to scan for obstacles.
6. Maintain the posted speed limit.
7. Never drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.