Motorcyclist Killed After SUV Collision on Hodges Boulevard in Jacksonville

A motorcyclist in his mid-20s has died following a collision with an SUV Tuesday morning on Hodges Boulevard in Jacksonville, according to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO).

JSO reported that the crash occurred around 6:50 a.m. in the 2300 block of Hodges Boulevard. Investigators said an SUV was traveling west on Egret Way and turned onto southbound Hodges Boulevard as a motorcycle was traveling northbound on Hodges. The two vehicles collided in the intersection.

Jacksonville Fire and Rescue transported the motorcyclist to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries. The SUV driver, a man in his late 50s, remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators.

Authorities temporarily shut down Hodges Boulevard following the crash but said all lanes were expected to reopen shortly. JSO noted this crash marks the 16th traffic fatality in Duval County in 2026 and the third involving a motorcyclist this year.

Intersections are among the most dangerous locations for motorcyclists. Even when a rider has the right of way, turning vehicles frequently fail to see motorcycles or misjudge their speed and distance.

Common causes of fatal motorcycle crashes at intersections include:

• Failure to yield while turning left or entering traffic
• Driver inattention or distraction
• Obstructed sightlines
• Speed misjudgment of oncoming motorcycles

Because motorcyclists lack the structural protection of passenger vehicles, collisions with SUVs or trucks often result in catastrophic injuries or death.

Legal Options After a Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Florida

When a motorcycle crash results in death, surviving family members may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim under Florida’s Wrongful Death Act (Florida Statutes §§768.16–768.26).

In Florida, wrongful death claims are brought by the personal representative of the decedent’s estate on behalf of surviving family members, which may include parents when the victim is a young adult.

Depending on the circumstances, recoverable damages may include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses related to the fatal injuries
• Loss of financial support and services
• Loss of companionship, guidance, and protection
• Mental pain and suffering of surviving family members

Florida applies a modified comparative negligence standard (§768.81), meaning fault is apportioned among all parties involved. Recovery may be barred only if the deceased is found to be more than 50% at fault. In intersection crashes involving turning vehicles, liability often centers on whether the turning driver failed to yield the right of way.

While law enforcement investigates traffic fatalities to determine whether citations or charges are warranted, those investigations do not focus on securing compensation for grieving families.

An independent legal investigation may help preserve critical evidence such as:

• Intersection design and sightline analysis
• Vehicle damage and crash reconstruction
• Surveillance or nearby traffic camera footage
• Witness statements
• Cell phone or distraction evidence
• Insurance coverage and policy limits

Prompt investigation is especially important in motorcycle cases, where liability is often disputed.

Experienced Representation for Motorcycle Wrongful Death Cases

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent families throughout Florida who have lost loved ones in fatal motorcycle crashes.

We understand the profound impact these tragedies have on families. Our firm intentionally limits its caseload so clients work directly with experienced attorneys—not case managers—and we handle complex liability cases involving intersection crashes and motor vehicle negligence.

Our firm can help by:

• Conducting an independent investigation
• Identifying all liable parties and insurance coverage
• Handling all communications with insurers
• Pursuing full and fair compensation under Florida law

There are no upfront costs. We only get paid if we recover compensation for you.

📞 If you lost a loved one in a motorcycle crash on Hodges Boulevard or anywhere in Duval County or Florida, contact Flanagan & Bodenheimer for a free, confidential consultation.