2 FHP Troopers Injured In Crash On Florida Turnpike
Car accidents can affect any driver on the roadway, and unfortunately, sometimes those who are sworn to protect civilians, such as law enforcement officials, end up becoming victims.
A major car accident occurred on the Florida Turnpike in Miami-Dade on the morning of June 15. The impact seriously injured two Florida Highway Patrol troopers and forced a complete shutdown of the roadway.
The crash happened in the northbound lanes of the Turnpike near Northwest 106th Street. A Florida Highway Patrol truck was towing a trailer. It was being followed by a marked FHP Dodge Charger when the trailer experienced a flat tire.
Both vehicles pulled over to the emergency shoulder. However, shortly after, a Cadillac SUV veered off the roadway and crashed into the Charger. The SUV then hit a trooper who was standing near the trailer.
The Charger was heavily damaged in the crash and could be seen in the median of the highway next to the damaged trailer. The SUV also sustained heavy front-end damage.
First responders assisted the two injured troopers. One trooper was sitting inside the vehicle at the time of the crash. A Miami-Dade Fire Rescue helicopter airlifted one of the injured troopers. Both were taken to a local hospital. The crash closed all lanes of the Turnpike. The northbound lanes remained closed until that afternoon, with traffic being diverted onto Northwest 74th Street.
A witness who works nearby saw the crash. They said the FHP troopers were changing the tires of the Charger when the Cadillac SUV crashed into the trooper and pushed him into the trailer.
The two troopers suffered serious injuries but are expected to survive. The driver of the Cadillac, a 28-year-old, suffered minor injuries in the accident. However, the driver had a suspended license and is facing criminal charges.
Car Accidents on Road Shoulders
Roadside shoulder accidents are more common than many people realize and often result in severe injuries or fatalities. Whether a vehicle is disabled, a driver is changing a tire, or a motorist is assisting another person, the shoulder may seem safe but it can quickly become dangerous when other drivers fail to pay attention.
Several factors contribute to these crashes, including:
- Distracted driving. Drivers who are texting, using GPS devices, eating, or otherwise distracted may drift out of their lane and onto the shoulder, striking stopped vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, or roadside workers.
- Impaired driving. Alcohol and drug impairment can reduce a driver’s ability to maintain lane position and react appropriately to hazards, increasing the risk of crashes.
- Drowsy drivers may unintentionally veer onto the shoulder after falling asleep or losing focus behind the wheel.
- Excessive speed reduces reaction time and makes it more difficult to correct a vehicle that drifts toward the shoulder.
Contact Us Today
Car accidents do occur on the shoulder of the road often and can result in serious injuries.
No matter how your crash was caused or who did it, a Kissimmee auto accident lawyer from Draper Law Office can help you understand your legal options. We will work to preserve evidence and determine liability. Schedule a consultation today by filling out the online form or calling (407) 743-6628.
Source:
nbcmiami.com/news/local/crash-involving-fhp-vehicle-shuts-down-floridas-turnpike-in-miami-dade/3820979/
