Fatal Turnpike Crash in Southwest Miami-Dade Leaves Two Dead

A tragic crash on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, claimed the lives of two people in southwest Miami-Dade County, drawing renewed attention to the dangers of highway exit ramps and high-speed driving. According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the crash occurred just after 9 a.m. on the southbound exit ramp of Florida’s Turnpike at Southwest 312th Street (Campbell Drive).

FHP confirmed that a white Toyota sedan failed to properly negotiate the curve of the ramp. The vehicle veered off the road, slammed into a tree, and overturned, resulting in a devastating scene. Both occupants, a man and woman, died at the scene. Their identities and ages have not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue responded swiftly to the scene but confirmed that there were no survivors. No other vehicles were reported to be involved, and there were no hospital transports following the incident.

Exit ramps like the one at Campbell Drive can be deceptively dangerous, especially when drivers are unfamiliar with the curve or traveling at high speeds. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), single-vehicle crashes on off-ramps and interchanges account for a significant portion of highway fatalities nationwide.

Common causes of off-ramp accidents include:

• Excessive speed while exiting the highway
• Wet or slippery road conditions
• Driver distraction or impairment
• Sharp curves not adequately marked or signed
• Mechanical failure or tire blowouts

Florida’s Turnpike is one of the busiest roadways in the state, and while it’s designed to handle high-speed traffic, exit ramps demand reduced speed and heightened attention.

Can Victims’ Families File a Legal Claim After a Crash Like This?

Yes. In Florida, when someone dies as the result of a vehicle accident, especially one caused by driver error or road hazards, the surviving family members may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit under The Florida Wrongful Death Act.

Surviving families may be able to recover compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of companionship
• Emotional suffering
• Lost income or financial support
• Medical bills (if any treatment occurred before death)

If your family has lost someone in a fatal accident like this one, it’s critical to consult with an experienced Florida wrongful death attorney. A skilled attorney can help you:

• Investigate the cause of the crash
• Collect evidence such as traffic camera footage, witness reports, and black box data
• Determine fault and liability
• File insurance claims or legal actions within the strict statute of limitations

Florida’s wrongful death statute typically requires claims to be filed within two years of the date of death, so time is limited.

While names have not yet been released, our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of the two individuals who lost their lives in this crash.