Florida Mother of Three Dies After Falling Asleep as Passenger and Being Thrown From Motorcycle on Interstate 95 in Volusia County
VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA – A 34-year-old Florida mother of three was killed in a tragic highway accident after falling asleep while riding as a passenger on a motorcycle and being thrown from the moving vehicle along Interstate 95 in Volusia County, according to authorities.
The victim was identified as Sara Vasquez, who died on December 26 after the motorcycle she was riding on traveled along Interstate 95 near the Oak Hill and Scottsmoor area. Law enforcement officials say Vasquez was riding on the back of the motorcycle when she dozed off, lost her balance, and fell from the bike, striking a guardrail along the highway. She was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders.
Incident Happened While Riding With Fiancé
Authorities stated that the motorcycle was being driven by Vasquez’s fiancé, 45-year-old Ricardo Bernal of Sanford. Investigators reported that Bernal was not injured during the incident.
Officials confirmed that Vasquez was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. No information was released indicating that speed, alcohol, or drugs played a role in the fatal incident. Emergency crews responded quickly to the scene, temporarily impacting traffic as first responders worked to secure the area and investigate the circumstances surrounding the fall.
Driver Arrested on Licensing Violations
Although Bernal was not hurt, authorities later arrested him for driving with a revoked license and without a proper motorcycle endorsement, according to law enforcement records. Officials did not announce any additional criminal charges related directly to Vasquez’s death, and investigators have not indicated that further charges are expected at this time. The licensing-related charges are expected to proceed through the court system.
Family Remembers Devoted Mother of Three
Family members described Sara Vasquez as a loving and devoted mother to her three sons, ages 14, 12, and 4. Loved ones say her sudden death has left a deep emotional and financial impact on the family.
In the days following the crash, relatives launched a fundraiser to help cover funeral costs and provide support for her children, who now face life without their mother. The incident has renewed conversations around motorcycle passenger safety, particularly the dangers associated with fatigue, long-distance highway travel, and the absence of protective gear such as helmets.
Ongoing Awareness and Safety Concerns
Safety experts consistently warn that falling asleep as a motorcycle passenger can be especially dangerous, as passengers rely entirely on balance and awareness to remain stable during travel. Even a brief lapse can result in catastrophic consequences, particularly at highway speeds.
Authorities have not released additional updates beyond confirming the circumstances of the crash and the subsequent arrest on licensing violations. Readers can continue to follow verified public safety updates and local news coverage at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
