Deadly Crash Shuts Down Florida’s Turnpike at Commercial Boulevard in Broward County

A tragic crash brought early morning traffic to a standstill in Broward County on Monday, July 1, 2025, as a deadly collision forced the complete shutdown of Florida’s Turnpike northbound at Exit 62 (Commercial Boulevard / State Road 870). The Florida Highway Patrol confirmed that at least one person was killed in the wreck, though further details about the victim or the cause of the crash have not yet been released.

The crash occurred in the early hours of the morning and involved at least two vehicles. Video footage from the scene shows significant damage, with both vehicles reduced to mangled wreckage, indicating a high-speed or high-impact collision. A blue tarp was erected by authorities, suggesting that a fatality was confirmed at the scene.

Due to the severity of the crash and the ongoing investigation, northbound lanes of the Turnpike remain closed, and all drivers are being diverted off at Exit 62. Motorists are encouraged to use U.S. 441 as an alternate route, although traffic is also reportedly congested on nearby Interstate 95, compounding delays throughout the region.

With both Florida’s Turnpike and I-95 affected, commuters across Broward County and South Florida experienced significant disruptions during morning rush hour. As of mid-morning, the Florida Department of Transportation had not provided a timetable for reopening the highway.

Motorists are urged to monitor real-time traffic updates and plan alternate routes while first responders and traffic homicide investigators remain at the scene.

Common Causes of Fatal Highway Accidents in Florida

Fatal accidents on Florida highways like the Turnpike are unfortunately common, with contributing factors including:

• Speeding
• Distracted driving (texting or using a phone)
• Fatigue or drowsy driving
• Driving under the influence
• Aggressive lane changes or failure to yield
• Mechanical failure or tire blowouts
• Weather conditions (slick roads or low visibility)

Turnpike crashes often involve high speeds and multiple vehicles, increasing the risk of severe injury or death.

Who May Be Liable in a Fatal Car Crash?

In serious or fatal auto accidents like this one, liability often depends on multiple factors including speed, distraction, impairment, weather conditions, and vehicle maintenance. Under The Florida Wrongful Death Act, if the crash was caused by someone else’s negligence, such as reckless driving, failure to yield, or impaired driving, the surviving family members may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim.

Potentially Liable Parties Can Include:

• Government entities, if poor road design or unaddressed hazards contributed to the collision
• Another driver who caused the crash
• Vehicle manufacturers, if a mechanical failure or defect contributed to the accident
• Commercial vehicle operators or their employers, in the case of truck or company car involvement

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim After a Deadly Turnpike Crash

The loss of a loved one in a sudden crash is an unimaginable tragedy. In Florida, wrongful death claims allow eligible survivors to seek compensation for their loss and hold the negligent party accountable.

Eligible family members under Florida law may include:

• Spouse of the deceased
• Children (including adult children)
• Parents
• Blood relatives or adoptive siblings who were financially dependent

Recoverable damages may include:

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of income and financial support
• Loss of companionship, protection, and guidance
• Emotional pain and suffering
• Medical expenses incurred prior to death

Wrongful death claims must typically be filed within two years of the date of death, but it’s crucial to begin investigating the case immediately to preserve vital evidence such as witness statements, video footage, and crash reconstruction analysis.

If your family has been affected by a fatal crash on Florida’s Turnpike or any major South Florida roadway, don’t wait to get help. Contact an attorney to review your case, protect your rights, and begin the process of securing justice and accountability. Call Flanagan & Bodenheimer at (305) 638-4143 for a free and confidential consultation.