Clay County, FL (August 20, 2025) – A devastating early morning crash involving a semitruck left a Jacksonville woman seriously injured Wednesday along U.S. Highway 301 near County Road 218, according to a report from the Florida Highway Patrol.
The collision occurred around 4:51 a.m., when a northbound semitruck, driven by a 35-year-old Ocala man, failed to stop behind an SUV that was stationary at a red light. Troopers confirmed the driver of the semi fell asleep behind the wheel, leading to the high-impact crash.
The force of the collision pushed both vehicles over the median. The semi continued across southbound lanes and onto the highway shoulder, eventually striking a power pole before coming to a stop.
The SUV’s driver, a 35-year-old woman from Jacksonville, suffered serious injuries as a result of the crash. According to FHP, she was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the impact. Emergency medical services transported her to Orange Park Medical Center for immediate treatment.
The driver of the semitruck sustained only minor injuries and was reported to have been wearing a seatbelt. No other vehicles were involved, and authorities remained on scene for several hours as they investigated the circumstances surrounding the collision and worked to clear the roadway.
We extend our deepest wishes for the full recovery of the injured woman and hope her treatment brings swift healing.
Fatigue-Related Truck Accidents in Florida
This crash on U.S. Highway 301 underscores the very real danger of drowsy driving, especially among commercial truck operators. Fatigue remains one of the leading causes of serious crashes involving large trucks nationwide, and Florida is no exception. Early-morning hours—like the 4:51 a.m. time of this crash—are among the highest-risk periods for sleep-related collisions, when the body’s natural rhythms can make staying alert more difficult.
Semitrucks, due to their weight and length, pose significant risks in rear-end collisions. In this case, the truck failed to stop at a red light, plowing into a stopped SUV—a scenario that often results in life-threatening injuries for the occupants of the smaller vehicle. The added force that pushed both vehicles over the median and into oncoming lanes emphasizes just how destructive these crashes can be.
Notably, the SUV driver was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, a factor that may have contributed to the severity of her injuries. Seatbelt use remains one of the most effective ways to prevent serious injury in crashes, yet compliance continues to lag, particularly during shorter or early-hour trips.
Commercial truck drivers in Florida are held to strict regulations regarding rest periods, but enforcement can be difficult, and fatigue often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. This crash serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of proper rest and attentive driving—especially for those operating heavy commercial vehicles.
For victims of truck-related accidents, recovery often involves months of medical care, therapy, and legal navigation. Determining fault, negotiating with insurance companies, and ensuring access to proper care are all vital steps toward recovery.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a truck crash caused by a drowsy driver, don’t delay in seeking the support and information you need.
A serious accident can change everything in a moment—but you don’t have to face it alone. At Local Accident Reports, we help connect crash victims with the trusted resources they need—from medical support to legal guidance. Contact us today to get help navigating the next steps toward recovery and justice.