Marion County, FL (November 13, 2024) – A tragic two-vehicle collision on southbound Interstate 75 near State Road 326 left one person dead and four others injured Tuesday afternoon. The crash involved a Honda Odyssey minivan and an Amazon semi tractor-trailer.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the incident occurred at approximately 3:27 p.m. when the driver of the Honda Odyssey lost control near mile marker 358. The minivan veered left into the grassy median before re-entering the roadway, where it was T-boned by the tractor-trailer. The impact sent the minivan off the road and down a grassy embankment.
Emergency crews from Marion County Fire Rescue arrived within minutes, beginning extrication efforts at 3:37 p.m., which concluded at 3:51 p.m. Despite their efforts, one male passenger in the minivan was pronounced dead at the scene at 3:55 p.m. Four other occupants of the minivan were transported to HCA Florida Ocala Hospital. Two remain in critical condition, while the other two are listed as serious. All injured individuals are adult males.
The driver of the Amazon tractor-trailer, a 59-year-old man from Hallandale Beach, was unharmed. Authorities have identified the minivan driver as a 40-year-old man from Immokalee. The identities of the other passengers are still under investigation.
Southbound lanes of I-75 were closed for nearly three hours to allow for emergency response and investigative efforts. Traffic was diverted onto State Road 326, causing a six-mile backup before the highway reopened around 6:30 p.m.
This devastating crash remains under investigation as authorities work to determine the cause and gather additional details.
Minivan Accidents in Florida
Florida’s highways see a significant number of minivan and tractor-trailer accidents due to high traffic volumes and diverse roadway conditions. Accidents like the one on I-75 highlight the devastating consequences these collisions can have.
Minivans, while designed for passenger safety, are vulnerable when involved in high-speed crashes, especially with large vehicles like tractor-trailers. Loss of vehicle control, as seen in this crash, can result from several factors, including driver fatigue, mechanical issues, or environmental conditions.
Beyond the immediate physical injuries, victims and their families often face emotional trauma and financial strain due to medical expenses, rehabilitation needs, and lost wages. Understanding your rights is critical in these challenging times, and seeking guidance can help victims and their families navigate the complexities of recovery.
Local Accident Reports is here to assist those impacted by accidents like this. Our team offers critical resources, connecting victims with knowledgeable professionals who can guide their next steps. Don’t wait—contact us today to learn how we can help you on your path to recovery.