Tanker Truck Spill Shuts Down I-595 in Davie After Multi-Vehicle Crash

A major crash involving a fuel tanker forced the shutdown of westbound Interstate 595 in Davie Wednesday morning after thousands of gallons of fuel spilled onto the roadway, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).

Authorities say the crash occurred east of Davie Road and involved multiple vehicles. Investigators reported that a tanker truck transporting fuel rear-ended a van before overturning onto its side. The rollover caused a large portion of the tanker’s estimated 4,000-gallon fuel load to spill onto the highway.

FHP further stated that a semi-truck attempting to avoid the collision swerved, striking the overturned tanker and another vehicle. Two drivers were transported to a hospital with minor injuries.

Emergency crews, including Broward Sheriff’s Office fire technical rescue personnel, worked to contain the spill after officials reported that fuel had reached a drainage system. Traffic was diverted to U.S. 441 while crews stabilized the scene. Commercial Vehicle Enforcement officials were notified and responded to assist with the investigation.

The incident remains under investigation.

Collisions involving tanker trucks present risks beyond vehicle damage and injury. Large fuel spills can quickly create fire hazards, roadway contamination, and environmental concerns when liquids enter storm drainage systems.

Common contributing factors in commercial tanker crashes include:

• Following too closely
• Sudden traffic slowdowns
• Driver distraction or fatigue
• Load stability issues
• Equipment or braking failures

Because tanker trucks carry hazardous materials, federal and state safety regulations govern how they are operated, maintained, and secured.

Legal Considerations After a Commercial Tanker Crash

When a crash involves a commercial tanker vehicle, liability investigations often extend beyond individual driver conduct. Potential areas of review include:

• Compliance with commercial vehicle safety regulations
• Driver training and supervision
• Vehicle maintenance and inspection records
• Hazardous material handling standards
• Emergency response procedures

Individuals injured in tanker-related crashes may have the right to pursue compensation for:

• Medical treatment and recovery costs
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage

Florida applies a modified comparative negligence system (Fla. Stat. §768.81), meaning responsibility may be divided among involved parties based on the evidence.

Law enforcement focuses on securing the scene and determining how the crash occurred. They do not pursue civil compensation for injured victims.

An independent legal investigation may examine:

• Crash reconstruction evidence
• Commercial vehicle inspection and compliance records
• Hazardous materials handling documentation
• Witness statements and traffic footage
• Insurance coverage

Early preservation of evidence is critical in commercial tanker incidents due to regulatory and environmental factors.

Representation for Victims of Commercial Vehicle Crashes

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent individuals injured in serious commercial vehicle crashes throughout Florida.

We understand the complexity of cases involving hazardous cargo and commercial carriers. Our firm intentionally limits its caseload so clients work directly with experienced attorneys — not case managers — and we are prepared to investigate regulatory compliance and liability issues.

Our firm can help by:

• Conducting an independent investigation
• Identifying all responsible parties
• Preserving critical evidence
• Handling communications with insurers
• Pursuing full compensation under Florida law

There are no upfront costs. We only get paid if we recover compensation for you.

📞 If you were injured in a commercial tanker crash in Davie or anywhere in Florida, contact Flanagan & Bodenheimer for a free, confidential consultation.