I-275 Northbound Lanes Reopen After Rollover Crash in St. Petersburg: Legal Options

Northbound lanes of Interstate 275 in St. Petersburg were shut down Thursday morning following a rollover crash that resulted in injuries, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP). The crash, reported around 7:30 a.m., caused a full traffic halt for approximately 45 minutes as emergency responders worked to secure the scene.

While officials confirmed that injuries occurred, no further details have yet been released. All lanes have since reopened, but the investigation remains ongoing.

Rollover crashes are some of the deadliest and most catastrophic roadway incidents. Even at moderate speeds, a rollover can cause severe injuries due to:

• Roof crush or cabin intrusion
• Ejection of occupants who are not properly restrained
• Multiple points of impact as the vehicle overturns
• Broken windows and collapsing vehicle structure
• Loss of control from sudden maneuvers or impact

Rollovers often happen fast, leaving drivers and passengers little chance to react.

Common causes include:

1. High-Speed or Abrupt Steering Maneuvers

A sudden swerve to avoid an obstacle or another vehicle can tip a car, especially SUVs or trucks with a higher center of gravity.

2. Side-Impact Collisions

Being hit on the side can cause a vehicle to flip over.

3. Slick or Wet Road Conditions

St. Petersburg frequently sees morning moisture or rain that can make the roadway slick.

4. Tire Blowouts or Mechanical Failures

Defective tires, suspension issues, or mechanical malfunctions can lead to loss of control.

5. Distracted or Impaired Driving

When a driver is not fully attentive, small roadway hazards can trigger catastrophic events.

Investigating Responsibility After a Rollover Crash

Even when limited information is released, rollover crashes demand a detailed investigation. Potentially liable parties may include:

The Other Driver

If the crash was the result of:

• Speeding
• Unsafe lane changes
• Cutting off another vehicle
• Driving while distracted or impaired

The Vehicle Manufacturer

If a rollover occurred due to:

• Tire defects
• Brake failure
• Steering malfunction
• Poor vehicle stability or improper warning labels

Roadway Maintenance Authorities

If issues such as:

• Missing guardrails
• Potholes
• Poor drainage
• Lack of appropriate signage

contributed to the crash.

Commercial Vehicle Companies

If a truck or commercial vehicle was involved, the driver and employer may be responsible based on:

• Improper training
• Fatigue
• Poor vehicle maintenance
• Overloaded or unbalanced cargo

A thorough review of evidence—including traffic cameras, witness statements, roadway conditions, and vehicle damage—is necessary to determine fault.

What to Do If You Were Injured in the I-275 Rollover Crash

Even when injuries seem minor, rollover crashes often cause delayed symptoms such as:

• Concussions or traumatic brain injuries
• Neck and back injuries
• Soft tissue damage
• Internal injuries
• PTSD or emotional trauma

If you or a loved one was hurt, take these steps:

✔️ Seek immediate medical attention

Some injuries are not obvious right away.

✔️ Do not speak to insurance adjusters yet

They may try to downplay or deny your injuries.

✔️ Document everything

Medical visits, symptoms, lost wages, and property damage.

✔️ Contact a Florida personal injury attorney

Rollover crashes often involve complex liability questions, and early legal representation is essential to preserve evidence.

How Flanagan & Bodenheimer Can Help

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we intentionally maintain a small caseload so we can give every client the attention they deserve. Our attorneys handle complex crash investigations, including:

• Rollover accidents
• Highway collisions
• Commercial vehicle crashes
• Wrongful death claims

We take on difficult cases other firms reject — and we win them.

Victims pay nothing unless we recover compensation.

If you were involved in this crash or a similar accident on I-275, I-4, or anywhere in Tampa Bay, our attorneys are ready to help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Schedule a free consultation today.