Hillsborough County, FL (February 10, 2025) – A 64-year-old patient tragically died after the ambulance she was riding in was struck by a semi-truck in Hillsborough County. The crash occurred when the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Ambulance was traveling east on McGee Road and entered the path of a semi-truck heading north on State Road 39.
According to reports from WTSP, the ambulance did not have its lights or sirens activated at the time of the incident. Upon impact, the ambulance overturned onto its side, while the semi-truck jackknifed onto the shoulder of the roadway.
The patient was transported to a nearby hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries. The ambulance crew sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to recover. The driver of the semi-truck was not injured in the collision.
The Florida Highway Patrol is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, including the events that led the ambulance to enter the semi-truck’s path without emergency signals engaged.
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the deceased patient, and we hope for a swift recovery for the injured ambulance crew.
Ambulance and Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Florida
Accidents involving emergency vehicles, such as ambulances, present unique risks and legal challenges. While ambulances typically have the right of way when their lights and sirens are activated, the circumstances change when they are not actively responding to an emergency, as seen in this tragic incident in Hillsborough County.
Semi-trucks and other large commercial vehicles are particularly dangerous in collisions due to their size and weight. When a semi-truck collides with a smaller vehicle, the results are often catastrophic, as evidenced by this fatal crash. Jackknifing, as occurred in this accident, can also lead to secondary collisions and further roadway hazards.
In Florida, all drivers, including those operating emergency vehicles, are required to follow standard traffic laws when not responding to an emergency. Failure to yield, misjudging traffic gaps, or improperly entering an intersection can lead to severe accidents, particularly when large commercial trucks are involved. The investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol will be crucial in determining liability and understanding the exact sequence of events that led to this fatal outcome.
Victims and their families often face emotional trauma and financial burdens in the aftermath of such accidents. Medical expenses, funeral costs, and potential legal proceedings can add to the strain. Families may have grounds to pursue legal action for wrongful death or negligence, depending on the findings of the investigation.
Understanding your legal rights after an accident involving emergency and commercial vehicles is essential. Consulting with legal professionals who specialize in traffic collisions can help victims and their families navigate insurance claims, medical expenses, and potential compensation for their losses.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a collision with a commercial vehicle or emergency vehicle, resources are available to assist with recovery and protect your legal rights.
If you’ve been impacted by an accident involving a commercial vehicle in Hillsborough County or anywhere in Florida, Local Accident Reports is here to provide the support and resources you need. Our team is dedicated to helping victims and their families navigate the complexities of recovery, from accessing medical care to understanding your legal options. Don’t face this challenging time alone—contact us today to find out how we can assist you in moving forward after a tragic accident.