Driver Airlifted as Trauma Alert After Tractor-Trailer Crash on Courtney Campbell Causeway

A serious crash involving a Jeep and a tractor-trailer on the Courtney Campbell Causeway sent one driver to a Tampa hospital as a trauma alert Tuesday night, according to Clearwater police.

The collision occurred in the westbound lanes of the Courtney Campbell Causeway, a major roadway connecting Clearwater and Tampa that regularly sees heavy traffic, including large commercial vehicles.

Clearwater police said the driver of a Jeep was trapped inside the vehicle following the crash. Firefighters were forced to extricate the driver from the Jeep before the individual could be transported to the hospital. Due to the severity of the injuries, the driver was taken as a trauma alert, indicating potentially life-threatening conditions.

Authorities have not released the driver’s identity or current medical condition. Police also have not yet disclosed what led to the crash or whether any citations or charges may follow. Images shared by Clearwater police showed extensive damage to the Jeep and a nearby PostcardMania tractor-trailer, highlighting the force of the impact.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Crashes involving tractor-trailers are among the most dangerous on Florida roadways. Because of their size and weight, commercial trucks can cause devastating injuries to occupants of smaller vehicles, even at moderate speeds.

Common causes of truck crashes include:

• Driver fatigue or hours-of-service violations
• Distracted driving
• Improper lane changes or blind-spot violations
• Speeding or failure to slow for traffic conditions
• Mechanical issues or inadequate vehicle maintenance

In crashes on causeways and bridges, additional factors such as limited shoulders, wind conditions, and traffic congestion can increase the risk of severe outcomes.

Legal Options After a Serious Truck Crash in Florida

When a crash involves a commercial vehicle and results in serious injuries, victims may have the right to pursue a personal injury claim against multiple parties, depending on the circumstances. Potentially responsible parties may include:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• A vehicle maintenance contractor
• A company responsible for loading or securing cargo

Compensation in these cases may include:

• Emergency medical treatment and future medical care
• Rehabilitation and long-term therapy
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability or disfigurement

Truck accident cases are often complex and require prompt investigation to preserve evidence such as electronic logging data, dash-cam footage, maintenance records, and driver histories.

Commercial trucking companies and their insurers often begin investigating immediately after a serious crash. Having legal representation early can help ensure that evidence is preserved and that injured victims are not pressured into early statements or settlements.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent individuals seriously injured in tractor-trailer and commercial vehicle crashes throughout Florida. We intentionally maintain a small caseload so every client receives direct access to experienced attorneys.

Our firm can:

• Conduct an independent investigation of the crash
• Work with accident reconstruction and trucking safety experts
• Identify all liable parties and insurance coverage
• Handle all communication with trucking companies and insurers

There are no upfront costs. We only get paid if we recover compensation for you.

📞 If you or a loved one was injured in a truck crash on the Courtney Campbell Causeway or anywhere in Florida, contact Flanagan & Bodenheimer for a free, confidential consultation.