August 16, 2025
A frightening crash in Melbourne, Florida, fortunately ended without injuries when a semi-truck became disabled on railroad tracks just moments before a 20-car freight train collided with it. According to police, the driver managed to exit the truck before impact, avoiding what could have been a devastating outcome. Our Melbourne, FL truck accident lawyer points out how quickly these situations can turn tragic, underscoring the importance of safety precautions and legal support when accidents occur.
The incident happened at around 9 a.m. on May 29 at the intersection of U.S. 1 and Lake Washington Road. The semi-truck, headed west, reportedly stalled on the tracks due to a mechanical malfunction. Moments later, a northbound Florida East Coast Railway train struck the vehicle, dragging it roughly 50 yards.
Sgt. Ben Slover of the Melbourne Police Department confirmed that in-cab video footage revealed the truck stopped unexpectedly as it crossed the tracks. The driver immediately recognized the danger, escaped the cab, and moved to safety. Traffic in the area was halted as investigators, along with Florida East Coast Railway officials, examined the scene.
One of the two train tracks remained open, allowing other rail traffic, including Brightline high-speed passenger trains, to continue operating. Authorities reported no charges have been filed, and the investigation remains ongoing. While this incident had a fortunate outcome in terms of physical harm, the extensive damage to the truck serves as a reminder of how costly and disruptive accidents involving large commercial vehicles can be.
Accidents like this one highlight the importance of having experienced legal support in the aftermath of serious trucking collisions. Our semi-truck lawyers can provide vital guidance when determining liability, especially in cases involving multiple parties such as rail companies, trucking firms, and equipment manufacturers.
How A Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help After A Collision
While the Melbourne crash ended without injury, many similar incidents have led to severe injuries, fatalities, and significant property damage. Our Melbourne truck accident attorneys can help victims understand their legal options after such accidents. From investigating the cause—such as mechanical failure or driver error—to identifying responsible parties, our legal professionals work to secure the compensation clients deserve.
At Tuttle Larsen, P.A., we understand that trucking accidents often involve more than just the truck driver. The trucking company, maintenance contractors, or even parts manufacturers could bear some responsibility. As freight truck lawyers, our work often includes reviewing maintenance logs, black box data, and surveillance footage to build a strong case for our clients. And since we work so closely with these types of cases, we know Florida laws like the back of our hands, so you can rest easy knowing a knowledgeable advocate is working on your case..
Our big rig lawyers also recognize that commercial trucking accidents can disrupt more than just your physical health—they can affect your livelihood, your family, and your future. Whether dealing with lost wages, medical expenses, or emotional trauma, our legal advocates make sure that you are not left to manage these challenges alone.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking-related crash, our Melbourne truck accident lawyers from Tuttle Larsen, P.A. can guide you through every step of the process. We’ve earned recognition from Martindale-Hubbell for the highest level of professional excellence in law, and we’re ready to put our skills and experience to use with your case. Contact us today for a free consultation and let our dedicated team fight for the resolution and compensation you deserve. We’re available to speak with you 24/7—any time of day or night—so don’t hesitate to reach out.
