Lake City, FL (June 6, 2026) – Three people were injured on Friday morning when a vehicle struck the rear of a stopped Florida Highway Patrol patrol car near Lake City.
The crash occurred at approximately 11:23 a.m. on U.S. Highway 90 at Southeast Baya Drive. A patrol vehicle was stopped at a traffic light when a car driven by an 84-year-old man collided with the back of it.
The driver and his passenger, an 89-year-old woman, sustained serious injuries. Both were airlifted to UF Health in Gainesville for treatment.
The trooper inside the patrol vehicle was also hurt and was taken to a nearby hospital with minor injuries.
Additional details regarding what led to the collision were not immediately available. The crash remains under review as investigators continue gathering information.
We are thinking of those injured and wish them a full recovery.
Why Rear-End Crashes at Intersections Can Cause Serious Injuries
Rear-end collisions frequently occur near intersections where vehicles slow down or stop for traffic signals. Drivers approaching a stopped vehicle may have limited time to react if they are distracted, traveling too fast for conditions, or unable to recognize traffic changes ahead.
The severity of injuries can vary depending on vehicle speed, vehicle size, and the force of the contact. Occupants in both vehicles may experience sudden movement that can result in injuries ranging from minor soreness to more serious trauma.
Investigators often review vehicle damage, traffic signal operations, roadway conditions, and witness accounts when examining these crashes. Understanding how and why a rear-end collision occurred can help provide a clearer picture of the circumstances leading up to the crash.
