Fatal Crash on Florida’s Turnpike in Homestead Under Investigation

The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash that occurred early Monday morning on Florida’s Turnpike in Homestead, shutting down all northbound lanes and causing major traffic delays.

According to FHP, the crash happened around 3:30 a.m. near Mile Marker 1 in the northbound lanes. Emergency crews and multiple troopers responded to the scene, and video footage showed several FHP units securing the area and redirecting traffic. Drivers were advised to take alternate routes such as U.S. 1 while the investigation unfolded.

Authorities have not yet released details about what caused the collision or the identity of the victim. The crash remains under active investigation.

Florida’s Turnpike—particularly the stretch entering and exiting Homestead—is known for:

• High-speed traffic
• Limited lighting in early morning hours
• Frequent congestion near major interchanges
• Construction activity
• Long-distance commercial vehicle traffic

These factors contribute to a high number of severe and fatal accidents each year. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), hundreds of fatal crashes occur annually on the state’s major toll roads and highways, many caused by:

• Speeding
• Impaired driving
• Drowsy or fatigued drivers
• Wrong-way drivers
• Commercial trucking collisions
• Hazardous road conditions

When fatal crashes happen, determining what led to the impact is crucial—not only for public safety, but for affected families seeking closure and accountability.

What Happens During an FHP Fatal Crash Investigation?

When a fatal collision occurs, FHP follows a structured investigative process to determine the cause and who may be legally responsible. This typically includes:

• Collecting roadway evidence such as skid marks, debris patterns, and vehicle resting positions
• Inspecting vehicles for mechanical issues or violations
• Reviewing traffic camera or dashcam footage
• Interviewing witnesses
• Conducting toxicology tests when appropriate
• Downloading black box data from involved vehicles
• Evaluating lighting, speed, and road design

These findings ultimately determine liability in the event civil claims are pursued.

Potential Causes and Liability in Fatal Highway Crashes

Because details remain limited, multiple possibilities may be investigated, including:

1. Driver Negligence

Most fatal crashes stem from preventable errors such as failing to maintain lane, speeding, distraction, impairment, or fatigue. If another driver’s negligence contributed, they (or their insurer) may be liable.

2. Commercial Vehicle Involvement

If a truck, delivery vehicle, or rideshare company vehicle was involved, additional parties may share liability, such as:

• Employers
• Vehicle owners
• Maintenance companies
• Freight carriers

Commercial cases often involve larger policies and federal regulations.

3. Poor Road Conditions or Missing Signage

If roadway maintenance or construction contributed to the collision, entities such as:

• FDOT
• Contractors
• Subcontractors

may be held responsible.

4. Vehicle Defects or Malfunctions

In rare cases, collisions may result from:

• Brake failure
• Tire defects
• Steering issues
• Electronic malfunctions

This could lead to a product liability claim against the manufacturer.

Legal Options for Families After a Fatal Crash in Florida

Families of victims killed in roadway collisions may have the right to pursue compensation through a wrongful death claim under Florida Statutes §768.16–§768.26. These claims can help recover damages for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental pain and suffering
• Medical expenses incurred before death

Even if fault has not yet been determined, speaking with an attorney early can preserve evidence crucial to the case.

Crash scenes are cleaned quickly, video footage can be overwritten, and witness recollections fade. Attorneys can:

• Obtain surveillance or toll-road footage
• Preserve vehicle black box data
• Request FHP investigative records
• Work with accident reconstruction experts
• Identify all potentially liable parties

These steps often make or break a claim.

Support for Families Impacted by Turnpike Fatalities

The loss of a loved one in a tragic, unexpected crash is devastating. At Flanagan & Bodenheimer, we help families navigate the emotional and legal challenges that follow. We intentionally maintain a small caseload so each family receives personalized attention and full investigative support.

We assist with:

• Understanding FHP reports
• Coordinating independent investigations
• Handling insurance companies
• Filing wrongful death claims
• Pursuing compensation through litigation when necessary

If a loved one was killed in a crash on Florida’s Turnpike or any other roadway in South Florida, your family does not need to face the aftermath alone. We are here to help you understand your rights and hold negligent parties accountable.