Troopers injured in crashes on Florida's Turnpike in Doral
- Two Florida Highway Patrol troopers were injured in separate crashes on Florida's Turnpike.
- The first incident involved a trooper investigating a disabled vehicle when a red Volkswagen collided with the patrol vehicle.
- The events underscore the critical need for drivers to adhere to move-over laws to protect emergency responders.
In Doral, Florida, two troopers from the Florida Highway Patrol were seriously injured in a series of accidents on Florida's Turnpike late Thursday. The incidents unfolded when one trooper was investigating a traffic crash involving a disabled vehicle that was partially obstructing the left shoulder and left travel lane. The trooper had activated emergency lights and was positioned behind the disabled vehicle to ensure safety. As the investigation was underway, a red Volkswagen traveling in the left lane failed to yield to the patrol vehicle and collided with it. This initial crash set off a chain reaction, leading to a secondary collision involving another trooper who was responding to the scene. The second trooper's vehicle struck the Volkswagen, which was blocking two lanes of traffic. Emergency services, including Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, promptly transported the injured troopers to HCA Florida Kendall Hospital for medical attention. The situation highlights the dangers faced by law enforcement officers while performing their duties on busy roadways, especially when other drivers do not adhere to traffic laws designed to protect emergency responders. The Florida Highway Patrol is likely to investigate the circumstances surrounding these crashes further, emphasizing the importance of driver awareness and compliance with move-over laws to prevent similar incidents in the future.