Melbourne, FL (December 13, 2024) – A multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 95 southbound, near the Pineda Causeway, claimed the life of a 22-year-old Melbourne man during the Wednesday morning commute. The crash involved five vehicles, including a semi-tractor trailer, and resulted in a fiery wreck that closed the southbound lanes for several hours.
The crash occurred at approximately 7:51 a.m. According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the chain of events began when traffic slowed in the southbound lanes. A semi-truck, driven by a 23-year-old man from North Carolina, failed to stop in time, swerving left and striking the rear of a 2024 Hyundai Elantra.
The impact caused the Hyundai to veer across the lanes, strike a guardrail, and burst into flames with the driver still trapped inside. Tragically, the driver of the Hyundai was pronounced dead at the scene. Troopers are withholding the individual’s identity pending notification of family.
Other vehicles involved in the crash included a 2022 Ford Explorer, driven by a 44-year-old man from Cocoa, whose 14-year-old passenger was transported to Viera Hospital for treatment. Minor injuries were also reported for a 33-year-old Melbourne man driving a 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis and a 44-year-old Cocoa resident in a 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan. Both were transported to Melbourne Regional Hospital for medical care.
The crash caused significant traffic disruptions, with all southbound lanes closed until noon as emergency responders and investigators worked the scene. Traffic was diverted at the Pineda Causeway during the closure. FHP is continuing its investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
We send our deepest sympathies to the family of the deceased victim.
Trucking Accidents in Florida
Trucking accidents on Florida highways often lead to devastating consequences due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. Interstate 95, a major thoroughfare in the state, sees frequent traffic congestion and accidents, particularly during peak commute hours. Crashes involving semi-trucks frequently result in severe injuries or fatalities, especially when smaller vehicles are involved.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rear-end collisions, often caused by failure to stop in time, are a common factor in multi-vehicle accidents. Such incidents highlight the importance of maintaining safe following distances, especially for large trucks that require more time and space to stop.
This tragic incident underscores the ongoing need for heightened awareness and safety measures on Florida’s roadways, particularly in high-traffic areas like Melbourne.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a serious truck accident, Local Accident Reports can provide the resources and support you need during this challenging time. Our team is here to help victims and their families navigate the aftermath of tragic crashes. Contact Local Accident Reports today for assistance.