Driver Killed in Fiery Thanksgiving Crash on I-75 in Venice, FHP Investigating

A tragic Thanksgiving Day crash on Interstate 75 in Venice left one person dead after their vehicle struck a bridge pillar and erupted into flames, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The crash occurred around 2 p.m. Thursday near mile markers 190–191.

Troopers say a driver traveling northbound on I-75 suddenly veered off the roadway onto the grass shoulder for reasons that remain unknown. The vehicle continued off the highway until it crashed into a concrete bridge pillar at South Moon Drive.

The impact caused the vehicle to burst into flames. Traffic camera footage showed heavy fire, multiple fire trucks, and law enforcement vehicles responding to the scene. Despite rapid emergency response efforts, the driver was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities have not yet confirmed the identity of the victim.

Multiple northbound lanes of the interstate were shut down for an extended period as crews extinguished the fire and conducted the initial investigation.

Run-off-road collisions like this one are among the deadliest types of crashes on Florida highways. While the exact cause remains under investigation, contributing factors in similar incidents often include:

• Driver fatigue or medical emergencies
• Distracted driving
• Mechanical failure or tire blowouts
• Speeding or improper lane changes
• Impaired driving
• Weather or visibility issues

High-speed corridors such as I-75 increase the severity of impacts, especially when a vehicle strikes a fixed object like a bridge pillar.

Determining Liability in Single-Vehicle Fatal Crashes

Even when only one vehicle is involved, liability is not always limited to the driver. Investigators and attorneys assess whether outside factors may have played a role, including:

• Road design defects or missing guardrails
• Poor road maintenance or debris on the roadway
• Vehicle defects, such as steering or brake failures
• Tire defects or recalls
• Improper construction zone markings
• Negligent actions by another driver (even if they were not struck)

Event data recorders (black boxes), vehicle inspections, and crash reconstruction are often essential in determining what happened.

Wrongful Death Options for Families

If the crash was influenced by another party’s negligence, surviving family members may be eligible to pursue a wrongful death claim under the Florida Wrongful Death Act. Compensation may cover:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of companionship and emotional support
• Lost income or financial contribution
• Medical bills incurred before death
• Mental pain and suffering of surviving relatives

Because evidence from a fiery crash can be quickly lost, it is critical for families to act promptly to protect their rights.

Key Evidence in Highway Fatalities

A thorough investigation may include reviewing:

• Traffic camera footage
• Vehicle black box data
• Crash scene photographs and measurements
• Maintenance records for the roadway
• Vehicle manufacturing or recall information
• Witness statements
• 911 call audio
• Fire investigation reports

This evidence can shed light on whether the crash resulted from driver error, mechanical failure, roadway negligence, or a combination of factors.

Compassionate Legal Support for Families in Venice and Across Florida

Losing a loved one unexpectedly on a holiday is especially heartbreaking. Families often struggle with unanswered questions about what caused the crash and whether it could have been prevented.

Flanagan & Bodenheimer supports families through every step of the legal process, offering:

• Free case evaluations
• No fees unless compensation is recovered
• Immediate investigation assistance
• Direct access to experienced wrongful death attorneys

If your family has lost a loved one in a fatal crash on I-75 or anywhere in Florida, contact our team today to understand your options and seek justice for your loved one.