Good Samaritan Helps Save Women After Truck Crashes Into Miami Marina; Driver Charged With Careless Driving

Two women are alive today thanks to the heroic actions of a bystander who rushed into the water after a City of Miami waste management truck crashed through a fence and plunged into the Miami River Point Marina on Monday afternoon.

The incident occurred near Northwest 18th Terrace, where surveillance and cellphone video captured the dramatic aftermath. The truck barreled through a fence, knocked down a tree, struck a boat, and ultimately landed in the water with the two workers trapped inside.

According to officials, the women became trapped by the vehicle’s deployed airbags. As bystanders watched in shock, Rafael Valdez quickly sprang into action after hearing one of the victims scream for help.

Valdez suffered a deep cut above his right ankle but managed to swim to the sinking truck and pull the driver out through the window.

“I feel good that I got there on time and the two women got out safely,” Valdez said in Spanish. He emphasized that he does not consider himself a hero—only someone who reacted when others froze. “It’s two lives… two people that could’ve drowned.”

Emergency crews, including divers, arrived shortly afterward and assisted in removing the vehicle from the water.

Miami police confirmed Wednesday that the truck’s driver—whose identity has not yet been released—has been charged with careless driving. Authorities have not provided additional details regarding what caused the crash.

The City of Miami released a statement acknowledging the bravery of the private citizens who acted immediately:

“Thanks to the quick and courageous actions of private citizens who immediately responded and entered the water to assist, both individuals were safely rescued. We are grateful they were pulled from the water without suffering any injury.”

Legal Questions That Often Arise After Workplace Vehicle Accidents

When a municipal vehicle is involved in a crash causing injury or endangerment, several legal considerations may come into play:

Employer Liability

If the driver was performing job duties for a city department or private company, the employer may be liable for negligence, improper training, or vehicle maintenance failures.

Negligent Operation of a Commercial or Government Vehicle

Drivers of government and commercial vehicles owe a heightened duty of care due to the increased risk posed by large or heavy equipment.

Third-Party Liability

If mechanical failure, roadway hazards, or defective vehicle components contributed to the crash, additional parties may be responsible.

Good Samaritan Protections

Florida’s Good Samaritan Act typically provides civil immunity to individuals who offer emergency assistance in good faith, helping ensure people like Valdez are protected when stepping in to save lives.

When to Contact an Attorney After a Serious Crash

Even though the women in the truck survived, incidents like this raise concerns about:

• Workplace safety
• Driver negligence
• Adequacy of training and supervision
• Compensation for injuries and emotional trauma
• Potential negligence on behalf of government entities or contractors

Anyone injured in an occupational vehicle crash—or anyone who witnesses negligence involving municipal equipment—should speak with an attorney experienced in government and commercial vehicle claims.

Flanagan & Bodenheimer Represents Victims of Serious Vehicle Accidents in Miami

Our firm has extensive experience handling cases involving:

• Government and municipal vehicle crashes
• Commercial vehicle negligence
• Workplace transportation injuries
• Catastrophic injury and wrongful death

We provide:

• Free consultations
• No fees unless we recover compensation
• Direct access to an experienced attorney
• Immediate investigation and evidence preservation

If you or someone you love has been hurt in a vehicle crash involving a city or commercial driver, contact Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm today to discuss your rights.