Motorcyclist Killed in Crash on Dames Point Bridge in Jacksonville

A 65-year-old Callahan man was tragically killed Sunday night after his motorcycle collided with a parked Road Ranger truck on the Dames Point Bridge, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP). The deadly crash occurred around 7:25 p.m., shutting down the northbound lanes for several hours.

Troopers say the motorcyclist was traveling northbound in the outside lane of the Dames Point Bridge when he approached a parked Road Ranger unit. The Road Ranger’s amber warning lights and directional arrow board were activated at the time of the crash.

Despite the safety signals, the motorcycle collided with the rear of the truck.

The motorcyclist was pronounced deceased at the scene. No additional injuries were reported.

The northbound lanes of the bridge were closed well into the night as FHP conducted an extensive crash investigation.

Road Rangers often stop on bridges, interstates, and high-speed roadways to assist stranded drivers or manage hazards. Even with flashing safety lights, these stationary vehicles can become involved in severe or fatal crashes due to:

• Driver inattention or distraction
• Poor visibility or lighting conditions
• Speeding or inability to slow down in time
• Sudden lane shifts on bridges or elevated roadways
• Failure to recognize traffic control signals

Motorcycles are particularly vulnerable because:

• They have less braking distance.
• They provide no protective structure.
• Riders can be thrown from the vehicle upon impact.

Legal Options for Families After a Fatal Motorcycle Crash

After a fatal crash, grieving families deserve answers — and under Florida law, they may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. Even when a crash involves a collision with a parked vehicle, liability is not always straightforward.

Potential areas of legal investigation include:

1. Visibility and Safety Issues

Was the Road Ranger properly positioned, illuminated, and visible from a safe distance?
Were there roadway design issues, poor lighting, or insufficient warning signs?

2. Compliance With Safety Protocols

Road service vehicles must follow strict guidelines for:

• Parking positions
• Use of arrow boards
• Lane closures
• Hazard notifications

A failure to follow protocol can create avoidable danger.

3. Mechanical or Vehicle Defects

Motorcycle braking issues, tire defects, or lighting failures may contribute to loss of control.

4. Third-Party Negligence

Other drivers or roadway hazards may have forced the rider into the collision path.

Even if the rider is found partially at fault, families may still pursue compensation under Florida’s comparative negligence law (§768.81).

Damages Families May Be Entitled to Under the Florida Wrongful Death Act

Surviving family members may pursue compensation for:

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of companionship and protection
• Loss of financial support
• Mental pain and suffering
• Medical expenses
• Lost income and benefits

Our law firm routinely handles complex motorcycle fatality cases — including those involving state vehicles, commercial vehicles, and roadside assistance trucks.

How Our Firm Supports Families After a Fatal Motorcycle Crash

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we intentionally maintain a small caseload so that every case receives the attention it deserves. Our team conducts thorough investigations, which may include:

• Reviewing Road Ranger protocols and training
• Analyzing crash reconstruction data
• Evaluating roadway lighting and bridge conditions
• Collecting surveillance or traffic camera footage
• Interviewing witnesses and first responders
• Inspecting the motorcycle for mechanical issues

Families never pay anything upfront — we only recover fees if we obtain compensation on their behalf.

Motorcycle fatalities are devastating and often preventable. Families deserve answers, justice, and support during one of the hardest moments in their lives.

📞 Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. We will help you understand your legal options and fight for accountability.