Toll Roads in Florida Can Increase the Risk of Serious Car Accidents
Florida’s extensive toll road system — including well-traveled routes like the Florida’s Turnpike — was designed to ease congestion and help drivers reach their destinations faster. But while toll roads offer convenience, they can also create dangerous driving conditions that lead to serious crashes.
With more than 700 miles of toll roads stretching across the state, drivers frequently encounter unfamiliar traffic patterns, confusing signage, sudden lane shifts, and physical barriers like toll booths and concrete dividers. When motorists hesitate, brake abruptly, or make last-second merges, the results can be devastating — especially at highway speeds.
At Applebaum Accident Group, we represent injured drivers and passengers throughout Florida who were harmed because someone else failed to operate their vehicle safely. If you were hurt in a toll road accident, you deserve answers — and compensation.
Why Toll Roads Create Unique Safety Hazards
Toll roads introduce driving conditions that differ from standard highways. For Florida residents and out-of-state visitors alike, this unfamiliarity can increase the risk of collisions.
Sudden Stops and Last-Minute Lane Changes
Toll roads often require drivers to choose between multiple payment options — SunPass lanes, cash lanes, or toll-by-plate systems. When motorists realize too late that they are in the wrong lane, they may:
-
Slam on the brakes
-
Merge abruptly without signaling
-
Slow down dramatically to read signs
-
Reach for cash or their wallet while driving
These split-second decisions frequently cause rear-end crashes and multi-vehicle pileups. One distracted or confused driver can trigger a chain reaction in seconds.
Physical Barriers and Concrete Dividers
Unlike typical highways, toll plazas include:
-
Concrete barriers
-
Narrow lanes
-
Toll booths
-
Limited shoulder space
If a driver swerves while distracted, drowsy, or impaired, they are more likely to collide directly with a fixed object rather than safely correcting their path. Crashes involving toll booth structures can result in catastrophic injuries, including:
-
Traumatic brain injuries
-
Neck and back injuries
-
Spinal cord damage
-
Internal bleeding
These are not minor fender-benders — they are life-altering events.
Weather and Construction Make Toll Roads Even More Dangerous
Florida’s summer thunderstorms can quickly turn toll roads into hazardous environments. Heavy rain reduces visibility and traction, while flooding and debris increase the risk of hydroplaning.
Additionally, newer toll road expansions or construction zones near plazas can confuse drivers who are not expecting sudden changes in traffic flow. Construction crews, flashing lights, or roadside accidents often cause rubbernecking, where drivers divert their attention from the road ahead — increasing the likelihood of a crash.
When road design defects, poor maintenance, or construction hazards contribute to an accident, liability may extend beyond just another driver.
Tourist Traffic and Toll Confusion
Florida’s tourism industry brings millions of visitors each year. Many are unfamiliar with toll systems and electronic payment methods. Imagine a family visiting a theme park who suddenly realizes they do not have their SunPass device. In a moment of panic, the driver switches lanes abruptly to reach a cash booth — without noticing that traffic ahead has slowed.
Rear-end collisions and multi-vehicle crashes are common in these situations. Unfortunately, what started as a vacation shortcut can end in serious injuries and overwhelming medical bills.
Who Is Liable in a Florida Toll Road Accident?
Determining liability in a toll road accident is not always straightforward. Depending on the circumstances, responsible parties may include:
-
A negligent driver who made an unsafe lane change
-
A distracted or impaired motorist
-
A speeding driver who failed to maintain safe distance
-
A government agency responsible for unsafe road conditions
-
Contractors responsible for defective construction or maintenance
Florida follows a comparative negligence system, meaning fault may be shared among multiple parties. Identifying every responsible entity is critical to maximizing your financial recovery.
What Compensation May Be Available?
If you were injured in a toll road crash, you may be entitled to pursue compensation for:
-
Medical expenses (current and future)
-
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
-
Property damage
-
Pain and suffering
-
Rehabilitation costs
-
Long-term disability care
Serious injuries can impact your ability to work, care for your family, and enjoy everyday life. A properly prepared personal injury claim ensures that all damages — not just immediate expenses — are considered.
How Applebaum Accident Group Can Help
After a serious crash, insurance companies move quickly to protect their bottom line. Adjusters may attempt to:
-
Shift blame onto you
-
Downplay your injuries
-
Offer a low settlement
-
Pressure you to settle quickly
You do not have to handle this alone.
At Applebaum Accident Group, we thoroughly investigate toll road accidents by:
-
Reviewing crash reports
-
Examining toll plaza surveillance footage
-
Consulting accident reconstruction experts
-
Identifying roadway defects or maintenance failures
-
Negotiating aggressively with insurance carriers
Our goal is simple: secure the maximum compensation you deserve while you focus on healing.
Speak With a Florida Toll Road Accident Attorney Today
A toll road accident can derail your life in an instant. Medical bills pile up. Your vehicle may be totaled. You may be unable to return to work. The physical and emotional toll can be overwhelming.
If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, you have the right to pursue justice. Applebaum Accident Group is ready to stand by your side and fight for your recovery.
Contact us (855-Call-Paul)today for a free consu
ltation and learn how we can help you move forward after a Florida toll road accident.
