Woman Injured After Metal Falls Off Truck and Smashes Through Windshield on Florida’s Turnpike

A terrifying roadway incident on Florida’s Turnpike in Miami Gardens left a woman injured Wednesday morning after a piece of metal fell from a truck and pierced through the windshield of an SUV.

The crash took place shortly after 11 a.m. in the southbound lanes of the Turnpike near Northwest 199th Street. According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), a tow truck lost a piece of metal that landed in the roadway. Moments later, an oncoming SUV struck the debris, sending it flying into the vehicle.

The metal shattered through the windshield and struck the front passenger, a woman, in the arm. Emergency responders said she was injured but did not release details about the severity of her injuries. Aerial footage from Chopper 6 showed the SUV pulled to the shoulder with a large hole in its windshield — a stark reminder of the danger posed by unsecured cargo.

Accidents caused by falling debris are more common than many drivers realize. Items that fall off trucks or commercial vehicles can instantly become deadly projectiles for cars traveling at highway speeds. Florida law requires drivers — particularly those operating trucks and towing equipment — to ensure their loads are properly secured before traveling. Failure to do so can result in both criminal penalties and civil liability if others are hurt.

Potential Legal Claims

For the woman injured in this crash, there may be legal avenues to seek compensation:

• Negligence by the Tow Truck Operator: If investigators determine the tow truck driver failed to secure the metal, the driver and their employer could be held responsible for the passenger’s injuries.
• Employer Liability: If the truck was part of a commercial operation, the trucking company may also be liable under Florida law.
• Insurance Coverage: Victims of roadway debris accidents may pursue claims through the at-fault driver’s insurance or, in some cases, through their own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage if the responsible party is unidentified or lacks adequate insurance.

Filing a Claim After a Road Debris Accident

In these types of accidents, it is crucial to:

1. Document the Scene – Photos of the damage, roadway, and debris can be vital.
2. Gather Witness Statements – Eyewitness accounts can help establish fault.
3. Obtain the Police Report – FHP’s report will include important details that can strengthen a claim.
4. Seek Immediate Medical Care – Even seemingly minor injuries may develop into long-term issues.

Victims should consult with a personal injury attorney who can navigate the complex process of filing claims against truck drivers, companies, and insurers.

This incident on Florida’s Turnpike is a sobering reminder of the catastrophic consequences unsecured loads can cause. While the woman is expected to recover, her injuries underscore the importance of accountability in trucking safety. As investigators work to determine responsibility, the case highlights why victims should act quickly to protect their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve.