1 Killed, 8 Injured In Crash On Florida Turnpike
In an instant, a crash on the Florida Turnpike can lead to significant damage to property and human life. Known as one of the most dangerous roads in Florida, the turnpike runs through major Florida cities. It’s known for its high speeds, lack of guardrails, and wrong-way driving.
A recent crash on the Florida Turnpike killed a woman and injured eight others. The fatal accident occurred on the afternoon of October 15 in Davie.
Two vehicles, a passenger van and a tractor trailer, collided near Griffin Road. The van had rear-ended the trailer for unknown reasons. Multiple units responded to the crash, including police and fire departments from Davie, Plantation, Broward Sheriff’s Fire Rescue, and Florida Highway Patrol. Officials used the Jaws of Life tool to extricate at least three people from the passenger van.
Eight people were injured. One of the victims was an infant. All were taken to Broward Health Medical Center and Memorial Regional Hospital to be treated for their injuries. Their current conditions are unknown. A woman died at the accident scene.
Traffic was diverted for most of the afternoon. The southbound lanes later reopened. The accident is still under investigation.
Dangers of the Florida Turnpike
Thousands of Florida residents and visitors drive on the turnpike every day. While it is a convenient road that takes drivers through various major cities, it comes with many dangers. They include the following:
- The speed limit on the turnpike is 70 mph, but some drivers exceed that, leading to aggressive behavior like tailgating and reckless lane changes.
- Incidents of road rage are reported, especially during peak travel times or holiday weekends.
- The turnpike serves as a major route for tourists and trucks, leading to heavy congestion near urban areas like Miami, Orlando, and Fort Lauderdale.
- Traffic accidents and breakdowns can result in long delays, increasing the risk of secondary collisions.
- Ongoing construction and road maintenance can create sudden lane shifts or reduced lanes, confusing unfamiliar drivers.
- Florida’s sudden downpours can cause slick roads and poor visibility. Hydroplaning is a concern during heavy rain.
- Fog patches are common in rural areas. They can reduce visibility, making it hard to react to stopped or slow-moving vehicles.
- Hurricanes and tropical storms can force closures and cause debris on the road.
- Drivers unfamiliar with toll systems may make sudden stops or erratic lane changes near toll plazas or exit ramps. Some drivers might swerve or speed through express lanes, increasing the risk of collisions.
Contact Us Today
Car accidents can be deadly, especially when large vehicles and high speeds are involved.
After a crash, you will want to know what legal recourses and rights to compensation you may have. Seek legal help from the Kissimmee auto accident lawyers at Draper Law Office. We can assess your damages and guide you through the process of financial recovery. To schedule a consultation, call (407) 743-6628 or fill out the online form.
Source:
cbsnews.com/miami/news/woman-dead-8-others-injured-in-turnpike-crash/
