1 Killed in Truck Accident on U.S. 98 near Lakeland, FL

Lakeland, FL — November 8, 2024, one person was killed following a truck accident shortly before 12:45 p.m. along U.S. Highway 98.

According to authorities, one person was traveling in a southbound Toyota Corolla on U.S. 98 approaching the Old Soldier Road intersection when the accident took place.

The cause of the accident remains unclear. Officials indicate that an 18-wheeler hauling a trailer loaded with metal pipes was attempting a left turn from Old Soldier Road onto northbound U.S. 98 at an apparently unsafe time. Before it could safely complete its turn, the Corolla crashed into it’s back-left side.

The 58-year-old who had been behind the wheel of the Toyota suffered fatal injuries as a result of the wreck. No other injuries have been reported. Additional details pertaining to this incident—including the identity of the victim—are not available at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When crashes like this happen, it’s easy to assume they’re the result of a momentary misjudgment or lapse in timing. However, based on my experience, collisions involving large trucks making turns across busy highways often involve deeper issues that warrant close examination.

A left-turn maneuver across multiple lanes, especially for an 18-wheeler hauling heavy cargo, is inherently risky and demands careful timing and clear visibility. When a truck is unable to complete its turn in time, it leaves other drivers on the road with little chance to react. Investigators will need to determine if the truck driver failed to assess the speed or distance of the oncoming Toyota or if other factors, such as visibility or a misjudgment in timing, contributed to the truck stopping mid-turn.

Additionally, any investigation should also look into whether the trucking company upheld their responsibilities to ensure safety. Regular training on safe driving practices, especially regarding high-risk maneuvers like left turns across traffic, is crucial in the trucking industry. If the company fell short in preparing the driver or if policies placed pressure on the driver to take risks, they could bear at least some responsibility for the tragic outcome.

Ultimately, the goal is to uncover the truth and provide answers to those affected by the accident. Even if it requires conducting an independent investigation to obtain critical evidence, it’s essential to consider every factor to ensure that those impacted by the accident receive the clarity and closure they deserve.