Motorcyclist Killed After Being Struck By Semi-Truck in South Florida
On March 5th, 2025, NBC 6 South Florida reported that a motorcyclist was killed after being struck by a tractor trailer. The terrible crash happened on the Palmetto Expressway, after the motorcyclist fell. Within this blog post, our Miami semi-truck accident attorney explains what we know about the crash and highlights the risks that motorcyclists face from big rigs.
Deadly Motorcycle/Truck Accident Reported On Palmetto Expressway
Unfortunately, a tragic fatal motorcycle crash recently happened on the Palmetto Expressway in South Florida. The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) confirmed that a motorcyclist lost his life in the early morning hours of March 4th. The rider—whose name is being withheld by law enforcement—lost control of his motorcycle and was struck by any oncoming tractor trailer. The crash occurred around 5:40 a.m. in the westbound lanes near Northwest 67th Avenue. The fatal motorcycle/semi-truck crash is still under a more comprehensive investigation by police.
Large Commercial Trucks Pose a Serious Safety Risk to Motorcyclists
Motorcyclists are vulnerable. They are more than 20 times more likely to be involved in a deadly crash than other drivers. Notably, riders face an especially serious risk from tractor trailers. Not only are commercial trucks massive—as much as 80 times the size of a motorcycle—they also have large blind spots. Truckers may fail to notice motorcycles at all. Further, eighteen wheeler trucks require longer stopping distances. That can be very dangerous if they are following a motorcycle.
Three Tips for Motorcyclists Riding Around Large Trucks
While truckers have a duty to watch out for the health and safety of motorcyclists, the reality is that mistakes happened. Riders should proactively protect their own well-being. Here are three safety tips for motorcyclists in Florida:
- Give Large Trucks Additional Space: It is best to play it safe. Large commercial trucks require more time and distance to stop. Motorcyclists should maintain a safe following distance to avoid sudden collisions
- Never Assume that a Truck Can See You: Trucks have large blind spots on all sides, making it critical for motorcyclists to position themselves where they are visible. If you cannot see the truck’s mirrors, the driver likely cannot see you.
- Pass Quickly and Smoothly On Highways: It is best not to ride next to a large truck on a multi-lane highway. When passing, do it quickly and smoothly. You should use your turn signal, maintain a steady speed, and complete the pass in a safe manner.
Call Our Miami Truck Accident Lawyer Today for a Free Case Review
At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our Miami truck accident attorney has the skills and experience to represent injured motorcyclists. If you or your loved one was hurt in a semi-truck crash, we are here as a resource that you can rely on. Contact us today for a free, no strings attached case review. From our Miami law office, our firm fights for the rights of truck accident victims throughout South Florida.
Source:
nbcmiami.com/news/local/authorities-cover-body-on-palmetto-expressway-amid-apparent-death-investigation/3557368/
