Fort Lauderdale: Pedestrian Killed on I-95 Exit Ramp

3Jul

In the early hours of Thursday morning, June 27, 2024, a somber incident unfolded on a Fort Lauderdale highway, leaving local authorities and community members in shock. The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) has launched an investigation into a fatal collision involving a pedestrian and a luxury SUV. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of pedestrian safety and vigilance on our roadways. 

Tragic Incident on Fort Lauderdale Highway Claims Pedestrian’s Life

The incident occurred at approximately 5:15 a.m. on the southbound Interstate 95 exit ramp leading to the eastbound lanes of Interstate 595. According to FHP officials, a 43-year-old man from Lauderdale Lakes, whose identity remains undisclosed pending family notification, unexpectedly entered the travel lanes of the exit ramp.

According to local news sources, a 2020 white Cadillac SUV, traveling along the ramp, became unavoidably entangled in the tragic event. Despite the driver’s attempts to avoid collision, the pedestrian was struck by the front right corner of the vehicle. Demonstrating responsible behavior, the SUV driver immediately pulled over to the shoulder and contacted emergency services.

First responders rushed to the scene, with the initial FHP trooper arriving quickly and administering CPR to the victim. Emergency medical personnel soon took over, transporting the critically injured man to Broward Health Medical Center. Despite the medical team’s best efforts, the pedestrian succumbed to his injuries, which reportedly included severe head trauma.

As part of standard procedure in such incidents, law enforcement conducted an impairment check on the SUV driver. No signs of impairment were detected, according to FHP officials.

As the community grapples with this sad news, local authorities emphasize the need for both drivers and pedestrians to exercise extreme caution, particularly during the early morning hours when visibility can be compromised.

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances that led to this unfortunate loss of life, urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. The FHP asks that anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has any relevant information to please contact their local office. 

Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased during this difficult time.

Safety Tips for Pedestrians in Florida

In light of this, and other recent pedestrian accidents on Florida’s highways, it’s crucial to understand the causes of pedestrian accidents in Florida and revisit safety measures for those traveling on foot. Florida’s unique blend of urban areas, tourist destinations, and high-speed roadways creates a complex environment for pedestrians, and local ordinances are in place to protect pedestrians and drivers. Here are essential safety tips to help keep you safe while walking in the Sunshine State:

  1. Use Designated Crosswalks and Sidewalks: Be sure to use marked crosswalks and pedestrian overpasses when available. In areas without sidewalks, walk facing traffic and as far from the roadway as possible. This allows you to see oncoming vehicles and react if necessary.
  2. Increase Visibility: Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially during dawn, dusk, and nighttime hours. Consider carrying a flashlight or wearing LED accessories to make yourself more visible to drivers.
  3. Avoid Distractions: Put away your smartphone and remove headphones while walking near roadways. Staying alert to your surroundings is crucial for avoiding potential hazards.
  4. Understand and Obey Traffic Signals: Learn the meaning of pedestrian signals and make sure to follow them. Don’t start crossing if the “Don’t Walk” signal is flashing or solid.
  5. Make Eye Contact with Drivers: Before crossing, try to make eye contact with drivers to ensure they’ve seen you and are preparing to stop. Don’t assume a driver will stop just because you have the right of way.
  6. Be Cautious at Intersections: Look left, right, and left again before crossing any street. Continue watching for traffic as you cross, especially for turning vehicles.
  7. Avoid Alcohol and Drugs: Impairment significantly increases your risk as a pedestrian. If you’ve been drinking, use a rideshare service or designate a sober walker to accompany you.
  8. Stay Off Highways and Restricted Areas: Never attempt to cross highways, freeway on-ramps, or other areas restricted to pedestrians. Use pedestrian bridges or underpasses where available.
  9. Be Extra Cautious in Tourist Areas: In popular tourist destinations, be aware that drivers may be unfamiliar with the area and could be distracted. Exercise additional caution in these high-traffic zones.
  10. Teach Children Pedestrian Safety: Educate children about safe walking habits from an early age. Hold the hands of young children near roadways and set a good example by following safety rules yourself.
  11. Use Caution in Parking Lots: Parking lots can be particularly dangerous due to limited visibility and unexpected vehicle movements. Stay alert and use designated walkways when available.
  12. Be Aware of Florida’s Climate: Florida’s heat and sudden rainstorms can affect visibility and road conditions. Be extra cautious during inclement weather and stay hydrated during hot days to maintain alertness.
  13. Know Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with Florida’s pedestrian laws, including those regarding right-of-way and jaywalking. Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help you make safer decisions.
  14. Plan Your Route: Before heading out, especially in unfamiliar areas, plan your route to avoid dangerous road crossings or areas without proper pedestrian infrastructure.
  15. Report Hazards: If you notice damaged sidewalks, malfunctioning pedestrian signals, or other hazards, report them to local authorities to help improve safety for all pedestrians.

By following these safety tips, pedestrians in Florida can significantly reduce their risk of accidents and injuries. Remember, safety is a shared responsibility between pedestrians and drivers. 

If you were injured or a loved one was killed in a pedestrian accident in Florida, call the pedestrian accident lawyers at Magazine & Light Law Group. Contact us at 727-499-9900. 

James (Jim) Magazine is a Florida Board Certified Civil Trial lawyer who has spent his career helping injured victims. Jim is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida since 1990 and is also admitted to practice at the Appellate level and admitted to the United States Supreme Court.

Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Florida Registration Status: Active
Bar Admissions:
Clearwater Bar Association
West Pasco Bar Association

James (Jim) Magazine is a Florida Board Certified Civil Trial lawyer who has spent his career helping injured victims. Jim is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida since 1990 and is also admitted to practice at the Appellate level and admitted to the United States Supreme Court.

Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Florida Registration Status: Active
Bar Admissions:
Clearwater Bar Association
West Pasco Bar Association