St. Lucie County, FL (November 13, 2024) – A Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Road Ranger tragically lost his life early Saturday morning in a crash on Interstate 95 while assisting a stranded motorist. The incident occurred at approximately 3:40 a.m. in the northbound lanes near Fort Pierce.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the 67-year-old Road Ranger had stopped on the left shoulder of I-95 northbound to assist the driver of a disabled 2022 Dodge Charger. A 28-year-old man from Royal Palm Beach, driving a 2016 Nissan Murano SUV, veered off the roadway and struck the parked vehicles as well as the Road Ranger standing on the shoulder. The impact was fatal, and the Road Ranger was pronounced deceased at the scene.
In addition to the tragic fatality, six individuals were transported to HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital in Fort Pierce with non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The FDOT Road Rangers program provides critical services to motorists, including tire changes, jump-starts, emergency fuel delivery, and clearing roadway debris. This incident highlights the inherent risks faced by these workers who strive to ensure the safety of Florida’s highways.
Roadside Assistance and Highway Safety in Florida
Accidents involving roadside workers are a stark reminder of the dangers associated with highway assistance activities. Despite measures to protect workers, drivers often fail to exercise caution near stopped vehicles or shoulder activity, leading to tragic outcomes like this one in St. Lucie County.
Florida law includes provisions under the “Move Over” Act, requiring motorists to change lanes or slow down when approaching emergency or service vehicles stopped on the roadside. Non-compliance can lead to devastating consequences, as seen in this crash.
Awareness and adherence to roadside safety laws are crucial for protecting those who risk their lives assisting stranded motorists. Drivers should always remain vigilant, avoid distractions, and maintain safe distances from shoulder activities.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a similar incident, understanding your rights and options is vital.
Local Accident Reports is here to provide support and resources to individuals impacted by tragic roadway incidents. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you during this difficult time.