Lycoming County, PA (May 12, 2026) – Milan Dodson, 20, of Jersey Shore, died Tuesday evening in a two-car collision on State Route 44 after losing control while attempting to pass vehicles in the opposite lane.
Dodson was traveling southbound on State Route 44 near Jersey Shore just before 7:30 p.m. when he attempted to pass other vehicles by using the northbound lane, according to Pennsylvania State Police. He lost control when he tried to merge back into the southbound lane, and a northbound vehicle struck him. Dodson’s car spun out from the impact, while the other vehicle flipped over.
The 20-year-old was transported to a hospital, where he died from his injuries. Authorities confirmed he was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the collision. The other driver, who was wearing a seatbelt, was hospitalized with minor injuries. The identity of the other driver has not been released. The investigation is ongoing.
Car Accident Liability in Pennsylvania
When a fatal car accident in Pennsylvania involves a passing maneuver, determining liability can be complex. Under Pennsylvania’s modified comparative negligence rule, a family may still pursue compensation as long as the deceased is found to be 50 percent or less at fault for the collision. A victim’s failure to wear a seatbelt may be raised by the defense, but does not automatically bar a claim. Pennsylvania law allows families to pursue both a Wrongful Death Action and a Survival Action, which can cover funeral expenses, lost future earnings, and the loss of companionship suffered by surviving family members. The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Pennsylvania is two years from the date of death, making it important for families to act without delay.
Evidence including vehicle black box data, witness statements, and road conditions can deteriorate or become unavailable quickly. Consulting an experienced car accident attorney in Pennsylvania as soon as possible can help a family preserve critical evidence and understand all available options for recovery.
Families across Upstate New York and northern Pennsylvania turn to Stanley Law Offices because:
- 45+ years fighting for the injured
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The loss of a young person is a tragedy that no family should face alone. If you lost a loved one in a serious crash in Lycoming County or anywhere across northern Pennsylvania, Stanley Law Offices is available for a free, private consultation at 888-997-3889. We are here to help.
