Pedestrian Killed in Early-Morning Crash on Florida’s Turnpike in Homestead

A tragic early-morning crash on Florida’s Turnpike in Homestead claimed the life of a pedestrian and shut down the northbound lanes for several hours, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The fatal crash occurred around 3:04 a.m. near Mile Marker 1, in one of the first stretches of the Turnpike entering Miami-Dade County.

According to FHP:

• A pedestrian was walking along the paved shoulder of the Turnpike.
• For reasons still under investigation, the pedestrian entered the roadway and was struck by an oncoming vehicle traveling in the left travel lane.
• The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene.
• The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators.
• FHP noted that charges may be possible, depending on the final findings.

All northbound lanes were shut down for the investigation before gradually reopening.

The identity of the pedestrian has not yet been released. The investigation is ongoing.

Interstates and turnpikes are among the most dangerous places for pedestrians because:

• Speed limits often exceed 70 mph
• Drivers have limited reaction time
• Lighting can be poor in early morning hours
• Pedestrians are unexpected on controlled-access highways

Even a brief step into a travel lane can have catastrophic consequences.

Who May Be Liable for a Pedestrian Accident on the Turnpike?

Florida law allows victims’ families to pursue compensation if negligence played a role. Liability can extend to one or more parties depending on the circumstances.

1. The Driver

A driver may be liable if they were:

• Speeding
• Distracted
• Fatigued
• Driving under the influence
• Failing to maintain their lane
• Not adjusting speed for visibility conditions

Even on highways, drivers must maintain control of their vehicle and keep a proper lookout.

2. The Vehicle Owner

Under Florida’s Dangerous Instrumentality Doctrine, the owner of the vehicle may be legally responsible even if they weren’t driving.

3. Government or Maintenance Entities

In rare cases, liability may involve:

• Poor lighting
• Missing barriers
• Unsafe roadway design
• Lack of proper signage

These cases are more complex and involve strict notice requirements.

4. Third Parties

If the pedestrian was forced into the roadway by an unsafe condition or another vehicle, additional parties may share responsibility.

An experienced wrongful death attorney can determine the full scope of liability.

Legal Options for the Pedestrian’s Family

Under the Florida Wrongful Death Act (Florida Statutes §768.16–§768.26), surviving family members may be entitled to recover compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of companionship
• Mental pain and suffering of parents or children
• Lost financial support
• Loss of the decedent’s future earnings
• Medical expenses (if any were incurred prior to death)

Even if police have not yet finalized fault, families should contact a lawyer promptly. Evidence such as dashcam footage, surveillance video, witness statements, and black box data can disappear quickly.

What to Do After a Fatal Pedestrian Accident

If you have lost a loved one in a roadway accident:

1. Do Not Speak to Insurance Companies Alone

Insurers often try to shift blame onto the pedestrian—even before the investigation is complete.

2. Preserve Evidence

A lawyer can send preservation letters to secure:

• Crash scene measurements
• Traffic camera footage
• Toll plaza recordings
• 911 audio
• Vehicle crash data

3. Request a Free Legal Evaluation

Families deserve answers, support, and full compensation for their loss.

Compassionate Legal Support for Families After Fatal Crashes

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer, we understand the devastation families face after sudden, preventable losses. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling pedestrian and wrongful death cases across Miami-Dade County and throughout Florida.

We offer:

• Free case evaluations
• No fees unless we win
• Direct contact with an attorney—not only a case manager
• Aggressive investigation and advocacy on your behalf

If you lost a loved one in this Turnpike crash or any pedestrian accident in Florida, we’re here to help you understand your rights and pursue the justice your family deserves.