Driver Killed After Being Ejected and Struck by Multiple Vehicles on I-295 in Jacksonville

A tragic early morning crash on Interstate 295 in Jacksonville, Florida resulted in the death of a driver who was ejected from his vehicle and subsequently struck by multiple passing cars, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The crash occurred just before 3:00 a.m. on April 7, 2026, in the southbound lanes near Wilson Boulevard, and led to a full closure of all southbound lanes for approximately six hours.

What We Know About the Crash

According to the Florida Highway Patrol:

• The driver was operating an SUV southbound on I-295
• For unknown reasons, the vehicle veered off the roadway onto the right shoulder
• The SUV continued through a grassy area and struck several trees
• The vehicle then spun back toward the roadway
• It came to rest on top of a guardrail on the right shoulder
• The driver, who was not wearing a seat belt, was ejected onto the highway
• After being ejected, the driver was struck by at least two other vehicles
• The driver died at the scene
• The drivers of the other vehicles remained at the scene and are cooperating with investigators

The identity of the deceased has not yet been released. The crash remains under investigation.

Ejection Crashes Are Often Fatal and Preventable

Crashes involving ejection from a vehicle are among the most severe and frequently result in fatal outcomes. Seat belts are one of the most critical safety features in preventing ejection during a crash.

When a driver or passenger is ejected:

• The risk of fatal injury increases dramatically
• The individual is exposed to secondary impacts
• There is a high likelihood of being struck by other vehicles
• Emergency response becomes more complicated

This crash highlights the devastating consequences that can occur when a vehicle leaves the roadway and occupants are not properly restrained.

Potential Liability in Multi-Impact Crashes

While this appears to be a single-vehicle crash followed by secondary impacts, a full investigation is necessary to determine whether any additional factors contributed.

Potential liability may include:

• Roadway conditions: Poor lighting, hazardous design, or lack of barriers may contribute to loss-of-control crashes
• Vehicle defects: Mechanical failures may play a role in the initial loss of control
• Third-party drivers: In some cases, actions of other drivers may contribute to a crash sequence
• Maintenance issues: Improper vehicle maintenance may be a factor

Even when secondary drivers are involved, liability often depends on whether they had the ability to avoid the collision under the circumstances.

Wrongful Death Claims Under Florida Law

Under Florida’s Wrongful Death Act, Florida Statutes §§ 768.16–768.26, surviving family members may be entitled to pursue compensation if negligence contributed to the crash.

Damages may include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred prior to death
• Loss of financial support and services
• Loss of companionship and protection
• Mental pain and suffering

A thorough investigation is critical to determine all potential sources of liability and insurance coverage.

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the cause of the crash, including what led the vehicle to leave the roadway.

Investigators will likely examine vehicle data, roadway conditions, visibility, and any other contributing factors.

Our Thoughts Are With the Victim’s Family

Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent families throughout Florida in complex wrongful death cases involving serious motor vehicle accidents. If your loved one was killed in a crash, our firm can help investigate the circumstances and determine whether a wrongful death claim may be appropriate.

We offer free consultations and handle wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning no fees unless we recover compensation for your family.