Van Overturns on I-75 in Sarasota, Seriously Injuring Two People and Causing Major Traffic Delays

A serious rollover crash on I-75 Monday afternoon left two Bradenton residents hospitalized with significant injuries and brought traffic to a standstill for miles. According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the crash occurred just before 3:00 p.m. on July 28, 2025, near the Bee Ridge Road exit in Sarasota.

Investigators say a van driven by a 48-year-old Bradenton man was traveling southbound on Interstate 75 while towing a trailer when the vehicle began to swerve for reasons still under investigation. The swerving motion caused the attached trailer to sway uncontrollably, destabilizing the van. In a desperate attempt to regain control, the driver veered toward the right shoulder of the roadway, but the effort proved futile. The van left the paved road surface and overturned violently on the grassy shoulder.

The crash resulted in both the driver and his passenger, a 31-year-old Bradenton woman, sustaining serious injuries. Emergency responders rushed the pair to Sarasota Memorial Hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment.

While FHP has not released further details pending investigation, this crash highlights the risks involved in towing trailers and the dangers posed when a vehicle becomes destabilized at highway speeds.

Trailer sway—commonly caused by improper loading, uneven tire pressure, high winds, or excessive speed—is a leading factor in many rollover crashes involving towed vehicles. Florida law requires that all trailers be securely coupled, properly balanced, and equipped with safety chains and lighting systems in accordance with Florida Statutes §316.530 and related provisions. Improper towing or failure to follow safety guidelines may subject a driver to liability for resulting damages or injuries.

If vehicle or trailer malfunction contributed to this crash, questions may also arise concerning product liability or negligent maintenance.

The Florida Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation into the incident. As of this writing, no citations or charges have been issued, and troopers have not yet indicated whether speed, mechanical failure, driver distraction, or external factors such as weather played a role.

For those involved in major accidents—especially when serious injuries occur—understanding your legal rights is essential. Medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term care can be devastating burdens for victims and their families. When towing equipment malfunctions or driver negligence is a factor, victims may have grounds for a personal injury claim under Florida law.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent individuals across Florida who have been injured in serious car and truck accidents, including those involving trailers and commercial vehicles. Our experienced personal injury attorneys investigate all potential causes, including driver negligence, faulty equipment, or roadway hazards, and pursue maximum compensation for our clients.