The Cochran Firm Legal Blog

Late Monday night, a driver heading south on US 27 in Broward County lost control of his semi truck carrying sheep, pigs, goats, and chickens. The truck then jackknifed across the highway and stalled. Instead of setting up reflective triangles, the driver either left the scene of the accident or attempted to signal other drivers with a flashlight (reports are contradictory). When another truck came south, it either did not see the truck or the signal or was unable to stop. It struck the truck and trailer in a deadly truck accident unlike anything seen in Broward County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The driver of the second truck and dozens of animals were killed. Dozens more animals were wounded. Truck parts and wounded animals lay strewn across southbound US 27. As emergency crews arrived, the surviving animals cried out in pain and confusion. Those that could still move were running around randomly. Groups of animals headed north and south. Some escaped into the everglades, and could be heard bleating overnight. Emergency crews, animal control, and volunteers helped to gather the animals. Some were placed in a temporary corral until they could be removed to a nearby farm. In addition to those killed immediately, many were badly wounded and had to be euthanized. Overall, as many as 100 animals may have died at the scene. Animal bodies were heaped alongside the road, which remained closed through the morning. Most escaped animals are believed to have been caught, but drivers are still urged to use caution.

This deadly truck accident could have been prevented. There is no information as to why the first truck driver lost control of his truck and entered a jackknife. Why did this driver not protect the area with reflective triangles, trying instead to use a flashlight to warn the oncoming driver? Some reports indicated that the driver was transporting animals to his own farm, and that he may have been a less experienced truck driver. His inexperience may have contributed to the jackknife and his questionable measures to alert the oncoming truck.

If you lost a loved one in a truck accident that could have been prevented, the lawyers of the Miami, Florida office of The Cochran Firm can help. Please contact us today for a free initial consultation.