Crash on Florida’s Turnpike Causes Heavy Delays, Leaves One Hospitalized: Legal Options

A serious crash on Florida’s Turnpike caused major delays Thursday evening and left at least one person hospitalized, according to officials. The collision occurred in the northbound lanes near Northwest 57th Avenue, creating significant traffic congestion as emergency responders worked to stabilize the scene.

Aerial footage from Chopper 6 revealed:

• Emergency crews cleaning debris scattered across the roadway
• Only one lane of traffic open, causing extensive backups
• Miami-Dade Fire Rescue airlifting an adult patient to a nearby hospital

So far, no additional information has been released about the vehicles involved, the extent of the injuries, or what caused the crash. The investigation remains ongoing.

Florida’s Turnpike is one of the busiest roadways in South Florida, with high-speed travel, heavy commercial truck presence, and limited shoulder space. Crashes on this roadway often result in:

• Severe injuries due to high-impact collisions
• Multi-car pileups when traffic suddenly stalls
• Extensive delays that complicate emergency access
• Difficulty for drivers to maneuver around debris or disabled vehicles

When lanes shut down and traffic compresses into a single lane, the risk for secondary crashes also increases.

Common Causes of Serious Turnpike Crashes

Although the cause of this incident is still under investigation, common contributing factors on the Turnpike include:

1. High-Speed Travel

Even momentary inattention can lead to catastrophic collisions when vehicles are traveling at 70+ mph.

2. Distracted Driving

Phone use, GPS adjustments, and in-car screens remain leading causes of injury crashes.

3. Dangerous Lane Changes

Abrupt merges or cutting across lanes to exit can quickly lead to loss of control.

4. Road Debris

Tire blowouts, fallen cargo, and roadway obstructions often trigger chain-reaction crashes.

5. Impaired Driving

Alcohol, drugs, or fatigue significantly reduce driver reaction time.

6. Mechanical Failure

Brake issues, tire separation, and steering problems can be disastrous at high speeds.

A thorough investigation—often including black box data, camera footage, and witness accounts—is needed to determine liability.

Legal Options for Victims of a Turnpike Crash

If you or a loved one was injured in this crash or a similar collision, it’s important to understand your legal rights. Victims may have claims against:

The At-Fault Driver

For negligent behavior such as speeding, distraction, or unsafe lane changes.

Commercial Vehicle Companies

If a truck was involved and negligence is tied to:

• Poor maintenance
• Driver fatigue
• Improper cargo loading
• Training deficiencies

Automotive Manufacturers

If a defective vehicle part contributed to the injury.

Government Entities

If unsafe roadway conditions or lack of proper signage contributed to the crash.

Because insurance companies often move quickly to minimize payouts, victims should seek legal representation as soon as possible.

What to Do If You Were Injured in the Crash

Even injuries that appear minor at first can worsen over time—especially after high-speed highway crashes. Take these steps immediately:

✔️ Get Medical Attention

You may have injuries that are not yet visible, such as internal trauma or whiplash.

✔️ Do Not Provide Recorded Statements

Insurance companies often try to use early statements against you.

✔️ Document Everything

Photos, medical visits, pain levels, and communication with insurers.

✔️ Contact a Florida Personal Injury Lawyer

A lawyer can protect your rights, preserve evidence, and deal with insurance companies on your behalf.

Why Choose Flanagan & Bodenheimer?

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we:

• Keep a small caseload, ensuring clients get true individualized attention
• Are experienced in complex Turnpike, I-95, and highway crash cases
• Fight aggressively against insurance companies and commercial carriers
• Have recovered millions for injured victims and families
• Charge no fees unless we win

Our attorneys handle difficult cases other firms reject — and we win them.

If you or a loved one was hospitalized after this Turnpike crash or any major South Florida roadway collision, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Future medical care
• Property damage
• Wrongful death (if the worst occurs)

Schedule a free consultation today. Let our team fight for the justice and financial recovery you deserve.