A Bradenton Man Survived a Semi-Truck Hit-and-Run—But His SUV Was Destroyed
In the early morning hours of August 19, 2025, a Bradenton man was driving northbound on I-75 in North Fort Myers when a semi-truck moved out from the shoulder and struck his SUV. According to WFLA News, the crash happened near Bayshore Road around 1:30 a.m. The SUV was totaled, and the truck sped off without stopping.
The Florida Highway Patrol is still investigating. The truck driver has not been identified.
If you’re ever in a situation like this, working with a North Fort Myers truck accident lawyer can make all the difference in protecting your rights and securing compensation.
Florida Laws That Affect Your Truck Accident Claim
Leaving the Scene Is a Criminal Offense
Florida law is clear. It’s illegal to flee after a crash, even if there are no injuries. When someone is hurt, it becomes a felony.
(See: § 316.061, § 316.027)
You Have 2 Years to File a Personal Injury Claim
Florida’s statute of limitations for injury claims is now 2 years from the date of the crash.
(§ 95.11)
A North Fort Myers truck accident lawyer can make sure deadlines aren’t missed and evidence doesn’t get lost.
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage Can Help
If the at-fault driver can’t be identified, you might still be covered under your Uninsured Motorist (UM) insurance. This can help pay for:
- Vehicle damage or total loss
- Hospital bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
But UM coverage must be added to your policy before the crash.
What to Do After a Truck Hit-and-Run in Florida
If you’re ever in a situation like this one, here’s what to do right away:
- Call 911 – Make sure the crash is documented and help is on the way
- Get medical attention – Even minor pain can be serious
- Take photos – Vehicle damage, debris, skid marks, the road, traffic signs
- Write down details – Time, truck description, direction of travel
- Look for cameras – Traffic cams, nearby businesses, or doorbell cameras
- Don’t speak to the insurance company without legal help
- Call a truck accident lawyer immediately
Why North Fort Myers and I-75 Are High-Risk for Truck Accidents
This crash happened on Interstate 75 near Bayshore Road in North Fort Myers (ZIP 33917)—a central corridor for freight trucks.
According to FLHSMV crash data, Lee County reported over 15,000 motor vehicle crashes, including commercial truck crashes, in 2023. Early-morning hours and high speeds make this stretch of highway especially dangerous.
Where This Crash Happened
This hit-and-run occurred on I-75 near Bayshore Road in North Fort Myers (ZIP 33917)—a busy corridor for freight traffic.
📍 Map shows accident location: I-75 & Bayshore Road, North Fort Myers (ZIP 33917). The Reyes Firm serves clients in Lee County and across Florida.
Why These Cases Are More Complicated Than You Think
Truck hit-and-runs involve more than just a missing driver. Here’s what makes them complex:
- The driver may work for a company or not be an independent operator
- There may be multiple liable parties (driver, carrier, broker, maintenance company)
- The truck’s black box (EDR) and logs must be preserved quickly.
- Your insurer may delay or deny your claim unless you push legally
That’s where The Reyes Firm steps in. We act quickly to preserve evidence, coordinate with investigators, and protect your rights—even if the driver is never found.
How The Reyes Firm Can Help
We’ve helped hundreds of accident victims across Florida—including in North Fort Myers, Fort Myers, Bradenton, and Lee County—get back on their feet.
When you work with us, we will:
- Investigate the crash thoroughly
- Send preservation letters to secure critical evidence
- Navigate UM or UIM claims
- Handle all communication with insurers
- Help you get medical care and compensation
Call (813) 686-7515
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if the driver is never caught?
You may still be able to file a UM claim through your insurance.
Q: What kind of compensation can I receive?
You can recover costs for vehicle damage, medical treatment, time off work, and pain and suffering.
Q: Can the trucking company be held liable?
If we can identify the truck, we can investigate the carrier’s responsibility.
Q: What does it cost to hire The Reyes Firm?
We work on a contingency fee basis—you don’t pay unless we win.
Contact The Reyes Firm – Your North Fort Myers Truck Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one was involved in a crash like the Bradenton man’s semi-truck hit-and-run, don’t try to handle it alone.
We’re serving clients across North Fort Myers (ZIP 33917), Fort Myers, Bradenton, and Lee County.
Call (813) 686-7515 or dial 833-4 BAD DAY
Consultations available in English and Spanish
No fee unless we win
