Young Man Killed in Head-On Collision with Semi-Truck on Eastport Road in Jacksonville

A man in his early 20s has died following a devastating head-on collision with a semi-truck Monday night in Jacksonville, according to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO).

The fatal crash marks another tragic traffic death in Duval County as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the collision.

According to JSO, the crash occurred shortly before 9 p.m. in the 600 block of Eastport Road.

Investigators say the young man was driving a Dodge SUV eastbound on Eastport Road when the collision occurred.

At the same time, a semi-truck with a trailer was traveling southbound on nearby Textile Road. Authorities reported that as the truck driver attempted to make a wide right turn heading westbound, the vehicle entered the oncoming eastbound lane.

This maneuver caused the semi-truck to collide head-on with the SUV.

Jacksonville Fire and Rescue responded quickly to the scene, but the driver of the SUV had suffered catastrophic injuries. He was pronounced deceased upon arrival.

Officials have not yet released the victim’s identity pending notification of next of kin.

According to JSO, this marks the 33rd traffic fatality in Duval County in 2026, highlighting ongoing concerns about roadway safety throughout the region.

Investigation Ongoing

Authorities continue to investigate the crash and will work to determine all contributing factors, including:

• Vehicle positioning and right-of-way
• Whether speed or visibility played a role
• Potential driver error or roadway conditions
• Any mechanical or operational issues

Commercial vehicle crashes often require detailed reconstruction and analysis due to the size and weight of tractor-trailers and the complexity of multi-vehicle roadway interactions.

Dangers of Head-On Collisions Involving Semi-Trucks

Head-on collisions involving large commercial trucks are among the most severe and deadly types of motor vehicle crashes. Due to the significant weight difference between passenger vehicles and tractor-trailers, occupants of smaller vehicles face an extremely high risk of fatal or catastrophic injury.

Common causes of truck-related head-on collisions include:

• Wide turns that enter opposing lanes
• Driver fatigue or distraction
• Improper lane usage
• Speeding or misjudging distance
• Poor visibility or nighttime driving conditions

These crashes often leave families facing sudden and devastating loss.

Legal Options After a Fatal Truck Accident

When a fatal crash involves a commercial vehicle, multiple parties may potentially be liable depending on the circumstances, including:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• Maintenance providers
• Cargo loaders
• Other negligent third parties

A thorough investigation can help determine whether negligence played a role and whether surviving family members may have grounds for a wrongful death claim under Florida law.

Our Thoughts Are With the Victim’s Family

This tragic crash underscores the dangers that can arise in seconds on Florida roadways, particularly when large commercial vehicles are involved. Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the young man who lost his life.

The attorneys at Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm continue to monitor serious and fatal crashes across Florida. Families who have lost a loved one in a truck accident may have legal rights and options available to them under Florida law and are encouraged to seek experienced legal guidance when ready.