Crash on the Interstate - What we Can Learn from It.

A recent 15-car crash on I-75 during a blinding downpour in Florida's rainy season started with a hydroplaning teenager. 

Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) states the pile up, involving 26 motorists, was triggered by 16-year old from Alachua, when he lost control over his 2008 Nissan after hydroplaning in the height of a storm.

Luckily, there were no reported deaths, resulting from this catastrophic pile-up that blocked the interstate for 6 hours. However, there are things to be learned from this crash.

As an experienced Gainesville accident attorney, I'd like to highlight the dangers of hydroplaning, which can cause catastrophic injury.  Not only are teen drivers ages 15 to 19 more likely than any other age group to be involved in a motor vehicle accident, but chances for hydroplaning increase as speed increases. 

While it is unknown how fast the teen was traveling, he was likely going over 50 mph on I-75, which increases the likelihood of hydroplaning.  Pooled water on the roadway was also likely a factor, since the National Weather Service reported the storm dumped at least an inch of rain.

Preliminary crash reports state that Myers "failed to use due care when special hazards existed."  Generally, hydroplaning is due to "driver error," caused by speeding and failing to maintain tire conditions. 

For more information:

Hydroplaning Teen Causes 15-Car Pile-up on I-75

The 5 Factors of Hydroplaning - Gainesville Accident Attorney Explains.

When Rubber Does Not Meet Pavement - Hydroplaning. 5 Ways to Avoid Losing Control

What is Viscous Hydroplaning?

Risk Factors Teens Bring to The Road