Orlando Man Killed in Early Morning Crash Involving Box Truck and Semi on Orange Blossom Trail

A tragic crash in Orange County has claimed the life of a 48-year-old Orlando man after a violent collision involving three vehicles on Orange Blossom Trail (OBT) early Wednesday morning, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).

The fatal crash occurred around 12:15 a.m. near Consulate Drive, a heavily trafficked area of Orange Blossom Trail. Authorities say the man was driving a Mazda CX-5 southbound when he lost control of the SUV and sideswiped a nearby box truck.

Following the initial impact, the SUV continued forward and slammed into the rear of a semi-truck that was turning onto northbound OBT. That secondary collision proved fatal, the driver of the Mazda was pronounced dead at the scene.

Footage from the scene confirmed that the semi-truck involved in the crash bore FedEx branding, though investigators have not officially confirmed the company’s involvement beyond the vehicle make.

Fortunately, the drivers of both the box truck and the semi-truck were not injured.

The Florida Highway Patrol is still investigating what led the SUV driver to lose control. However, based on early reports, possible contributing factors may include:

• Driver fatigue, especially given the early morning hour
• Speeding or aggressive lane changes
• Weather or road conditions
• Mechanical failure or tire blowout
• Distracted or impaired driving

Sideswipe collisions often occur when a vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane or when a driver misjudges distance while changing lanes, particularly dangerous near large commercial trucks with wide blind spots.

In multi-vehicle crashes like this one, the complexity of determining liability increases, especially when multiple commercial vehicles are involved. Although the deceased driver is initially believed to have caused the crash, a full investigation will evaluate whether other factors or negligence contributed, such as:

• Improper lane positioning by the trucks
• Inadequate lighting or signage
• Road hazards or defective vehicle parts
• Driver distraction or failure to yield

If a commercial vehicle was improperly positioned, braked suddenly without cause, or failed to use turn signals, partial fault may still lie with one of the other drivers.

In fatal accidents, wrongful death claims may be considered by surviving family members if evidence emerges that another party’s negligence contributed to the crash, even in part.

Under Florida law, a wrongful death lawsuit can be brought if a person’s death was caused by the wrongful act, negligence, or breach of contract by another. The decedent’s surviving family—spouse, children, or parents—may be entitled to compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support
• Emotional pain and suffering
• Loss of companionship or guidance

In this case, if further investigation reveals that one of the commercial drivers failed to exercise proper caution—such as blocking lanes, failing to use lights or indicators, or violating FMCSA trucking regulations—a claim could be brought against the driver, their employer, or their insurer.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we understand the trauma families face after a sudden and tragic loss. If your loved one was involved in a fatal crash, whether on Orange Blossom Trail or elsewhere in Florida, we are here to help investigate, hold negligent parties accountable, and pursue justice on your behalf.