Motorcyclist Killed in Crash on Arlington Expressway at Mathews Bridge in Jacksonville

A motorcyclist has died following a crash Tuesday morning on the Arlington Expressway near the Mathews Bridge in Jacksonville, according to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO).

Authorities said the crash occurred around 10 a.m. on Arlington Expressway East at the Mathews Bridge.

According to investigators:

• The motorcyclist, a man in his early 30s, was traveling at a high rate of speed
• He sideswiped a vehicle traveling in the left lane
• The motorcycle then moved into the right lane and struck the rear of a Ford F-150 pickup truck
• Jacksonville Fire and Rescue transported the rider to a nearby hospital
• He later died from his injuries

Officials confirmed that both drivers of the other vehicles involved remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators.

All lanes of the Arlington Expressway were temporarily closed while emergency crews responded and investigated but have since reopened.

JSO reported that this crash marks:

• The 26th traffic fatality in Duval County in 2026
• The seventh fatal crash involving a motorcycle this year

Motorcyclists remain among the most vulnerable road users, often suffering severe or fatal injuries even in crashes involving passenger vehicles traveling at moderate speeds.

Motorcycle accidents frequently result in catastrophic injuries due to the lack of protection riders have compared to occupants of passenger vehicles.

Common factors that contribute to serious motorcycle crashes include:

• Excessive speed
• Lane changes and merging conflicts
• Limited visibility
• Following too closely
• Roadway hazards
• Driver inattention

Even when speed is believed to be a factor, investigators must still evaluate all circumstances surrounding a crash to determine whether additional negligence contributed.

Determining Liability After a Motorcycle Crash

Every fatal crash requires a thorough investigation. Liability may involve one or multiple parties depending on the facts.

Potential contributing factors can include:

• Unsafe lane changes by other drivers
• Failure to maintain a proper lookout
• Sudden braking or traffic conditions
• Road design or maintenance issues
• Vehicle defects or mechanical failures

Florida follows a modified comparative negligence system (§768.81), meaning fault can be shared among multiple parties and may impact a potential civil claim.

Wrongful Death Claims for Surviving Families

When a fatal crash occurs, surviving family members may have the right to pursue compensation through a wrongful death claim if negligence played any role in the incident.

Recoverable damages may include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support and benefits
• Loss of companionship and protection
• Mental pain and suffering of surviving family members
• Medical expenses incurred prior to death

An independent legal investigation can help determine whether all potential sources of liability and insurance coverage have been identified.

How an Independent Investigation Can Help

Law enforcement investigations focus on determining the cause of a crash and any traffic violations. They do not pursue compensation for victims’ families.

A separate civil investigation may include:

• Crash reconstruction analysis
• Review of vehicle damage and roadway evidence
• Witness statements
• Traffic camera or surveillance footage
• Insurance and liability analysis

Preserving evidence early can be critical in serious and fatal crash cases.

Representation for Families After Fatal Motorcycle Accidents

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

Our firm intentionally maintains a small caseload so clients receive personalized attention and direct access to experienced attorneys.

We assist families by:

• Conducting thorough independent investigations
• Identifying all responsible parties
• Handling insurance communications
• Pursuing full compensation under Florida law

There are no upfront costs, and we only recover fees if compensation is obtained.

If your loved one was killed in a motorcycle crash in Jacksonville or anywhere in Florida, contact Flanagan & Bodenheimer for a free, confidential consultation.