A 30-year-old Jacksonville woman was killed Monday when her vehicle struck a parked excavator on westbound Interstate 10 near Lane Avenue, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The crash closed all westbound lanes between Lane and Cassat avenues for an extended period, causing traffic to back up to Roosevelt Boulevard.
What The Highway Patrol Said
Troopers said the woman was driving west on I-10 and attempting to merge into the right lane when she lost control. Her vehicle veered left toward the shoulder and struck a parked excavator that was part of construction work in the area. She was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Florida Highway Patrol and reported by News4JAX.
Construction In The Corridor
Florida Department of Transportation records indicate that an I-10 widening project between I-295 and I-95 has included periodic lane and ramp closures, as well as staging of heavy equipment near Lane and Cassat avenues. The project involved temporary closures and nighttime work, which explains why an excavator was parked along the shoulder.
Move Over Law And Roadside Safety
Florida’s Move Over law applies to construction and maintenance vehicles, requiring drivers to either change lanes away from stopped work crews or slow down if a lane change is not possible to maintain a safety buffer. The state has conducted public education campaigns in recent years aimed at reducing roadside crashes.
Investigation And Aftermath
Florida Highway Patrol troopers are continuing to investigate the crash. FHP has not released the driver’s name. Motorists traveling across Jacksonville’s Westside are advised to expect delays and to check FDOT traffic advisories for current lane information, as ongoing work in the corridor includes periodic ramp and lane closures.
