A rear-end collision delayed traffic shortly in the eastbound lanes of U.S. Highway 98 near Coral Street March 15 around 10 a.m.
Vincenzo Bassolino of Navarre and Elaine Bustamante of Fort Walton Beach were stopped in the outside lane of U.S. Highway 98 for a red light. Vera Daniel, of Cantonment, was approaching from the rear and when the traffic signal changed to green, both Bassolino and Bustamante started to move forward, but Daniel did not decelerate enough and her vehicle struck Bassolino’s van, which then struck Bustamante’s vehicle.
Daniel was cited with careless driving, according to the Florida Highway Patrol media release.
The release showed that Daniel had serious injuries, but refused hospital transfer. Her passenger had minor injuries and also refused hospital transfer. Bassolino reported no injuries though his passenger had minor injuries, but did not seek medical attention. Bustamante had no injuries.
Both cars involved in the accident were moved out of the traffic lanes, leaving a small amount of plastic debris in the road. Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Collins was parked nearby and was able to respond quickly.
The Holley-Navarre Fire Department responded for a routine medical check and then EMS responded as well.