Semi-Truck and Dump Truck Collision Shuts Down Westbound Lanes of Southern Boulevard

A serious early-morning crash involving a jackknifed semi-truck and a dump truck brought westbound traffic on Southern Boulevard to a standstill on Tuesday, according to Palm Beach County Fire Rescue. One person was transported to the hospital, and major roadway closures remain in place as authorities investigate and crews work to clear the wreckage.

Palm Beach County Fire Rescue responded to the scene at approximately 6:05 a.m. near the intersection of Southern Boulevard and D Road. When first responders arrived, they found a semi-truck that had jackknifed and collided with a dump truck.

The force of the crash caused significant damage to both vehicles and created hazardous roadway conditions, prompting the immediate shutdown of all westbound lanes of Southern Boulevard.

One individual was taken to a nearby hospital. Officials have not yet released their identity or the extent of their injuries.

Due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles involved, heavy equipment is required to safely clear the roadway. Commuters in Palm Beach County have been advised to expect delays and find alternate routes while westbound lanes of Southern Boulevard remain closed.

Authorities have not yet shared when the roadway is expected to fully reopen.

Why Crashes Involving Commercial Trucks Are So Dangerous

Semi-trucks, dump trucks, and other heavy commercial vehicles are involved in some of the most severe crashes on Florida roads due to their size, weight, and stopping distance. Common causes of commercial truck collisions include:

• Driver fatigue
• Poor visibility during early morning hours
• Brake or equipment failure
• Improper lane changes
• Overloaded or improperly secured cargo
• Sudden traffic slowdowns
• Speeding or aggressive driving

When a truck jackknifes, the trailer swings out at an angle, often blocking multiple lanes and causing secondary collisions.

Liability in Truck-Versus-Truck Collisions

Determining fault in commercial vehicle crashes often requires an in-depth investigation into:

• Driver logs and hours-of-service compliance
• Black box (event data recorder) information
• Maintenance and inspection records
• Vehicle weight and load distribution
• Road and weather conditions
• Whether distracted driving or impairment played a role

Commercial carriers have a duty to ensure their drivers are trained, their trucks are maintained, and federal safety regulations are followed.

What Injured Victims Should Do After a Commercial Truck Crash

Anyone injured in a crash involving a semi-truck or dump truck may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Long-term rehabilitation
• Property damage

Because trucking companies have insurance teams working immediately to reduce their liability, it is crucial for victims to seek legal representation as soon as possible to preserve evidence and protect their rights.

Our Firm Helps Victims of Commercial Truck Accidents Across Palm Beach County

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we have extensive experience handling complex truck accident cases and fighting major carriers and insurance companies on behalf of injured clients.

We provide:

• Free consultations
• No fees unless we win
• Immediate evidence preservation
• Direct access to an attorney
• Proven results in serious injury and wrongful death cases

If you or a loved one was injured in a commercial vehicle crash on Southern Boulevard or anywhere in Florida, contact our firm today to understand your legal options.