POLK COUNTY, FL – As of this week at least 24 deaths in Florida have been attributed to Hurricane Milton, including a Polk County employee killed in an accident.
According to a news release, the incident happened Oct. 10 at the cross street of Brooke Road and US Highway 98 near Fort Meade at about 5:45 a.m.
Officials said Polk County Roads and Drainage employees were in the process of cutting down a tree that had fallen during the hurricane and was blocking US 98 when a vehicle struck a Fort Meade Maintenance Unit Service Worker.
The victim, identified as 68-year-old Bruce Kinsler, was killed. He had served Polk County for about a decade.
The driver of the vehicle was another Polk County employee who was coming to join the crew for post-storm recovery. The employee was transported to the hospital.
“The tragedy of this incident is compounded by the fact that Bruce Kinsler was killed serving the residents of this county,” said Bill Braswell, Polk County Commission Board Chair. “We ask a lot of the employees as public servants, and they respond to the call. For this to happen is just a tragedy.”
County officials said safety precautions were in place and personal protective equipment was worn, according to established roadway safety procedures.
Amid the recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, it is important to review your homeowner’s insurance policy to find out what kinds of coverage you have on your house, including coverage for hurricane-related damage. For legal guidance and advice regarding insurance coverage and the claims process, our Florida hurricane and storm damage attorneys at Whittel & Melton can help. For a free consultation, get in touch with us by calling 866-608-5529 or contact us 24/7 online.