Available 
Miami-Dade, FL (February 12, 2026) – Three people were injured Thursday morning in a crash along Interstate 75 in Northwest Miami-Dade that led to the temporary closure of all southbound express lanes near Miami Gardens Dr. The collision was reported at approximately 7:40 a.m., prompting a large response from Florida Highway Patrol and Miami-Dade Fire Rescue.
Key Details
- Location: I-75 southbound express lanes near Miami Gardens Dr, Northwest Miami-Dade
- Incident type: Multi-vehicle crash with injuries
- Reported: Thursday, February 12 at 7:40 a.m.
- Injuries: Three people hurt; one airlifted to trauma center
- Medical response: One transported by helicopter, one by ground ambulance, one refused transport
- Traffic impact: All southbound express lanes closed for hours
What We Know So Far
- Authorities responded to a crash in the southbound express lanes of I-75 near Miami Gardens Dr during the morning commute.
- Miami-Dade Fire Rescue airlifted one injured person to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Center.
- Paramedics transported a second patient by ground ambulance, while a third person declined transport after evaluation.
- Troopers diverted traffic into the regular southbound lanes, with backups stretching north to Miramar Pkwy before lanes reopened.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The total number of vehicles involved in the crash.
- The current condition of the person airlifted to the trauma center.
- What factors may have contributed to the collision in the express lanes.
Local Context
Interstate 75 through Northwest Miami-Dade carries heavy commuter traffic, particularly during the morning rush. The express lanes are designed to ease congestion, but crashes in these separated lanes can create significant disruption due to limited access points. When a serious injury is reported, responders may close multiple lanes to allow helicopters to land safely and provide a secure work zone for paramedics. Closures near Miami Gardens Dr can quickly cause backups that extend toward Miramar and other Broward County access points. Even after lanes reopen, congestion often lingers as traffic patterns return to normal.
What to Do Next
- If you are involved in a highway crash, move to a safe area away from traffic if possible and call 911 for medical assistance.
- Follow directions from law enforcement and do not attempt to bypass lane closures or enter restricted areas.
- If you witnessed the crash and it is safe, consider providing a brief statement to troopers about what you observed.
- Check traffic advisories before traveling through the area, as residual delays may continue after lanes reopen.
FAQ
Q: Why do highway accidents create backups so quickly?
A: High speeds and limited lane access mean even a single blocked lane can rapidly cause congestion to build for miles.
Q: Why are freeway accidents especially hazardous for responders?
A: Emergency crews often work near live traffic moving at highway speeds, increasing the risk of secondary crashes.
Q: What happens during the documentation phase of an accident response?
A: Officials collect statements, record vehicle positions, and assess roadway conditions before clearing the scene and finalizing their report.
