Putnam County, FL — February 19, 2025, one person was killed in a truck accident at about 5 a.m. on State Road 19.

Authorities said a Honda pilot was headed south near East Marion Street when it collided head-on with a semi-truck.

The Honda driver, a 45-year-old Haines City man whose name has not been made public at this time, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash south of Palatka, according to authorities.

The truck driver was not injured.

Authorities have not released any additional information about the Putnam County crash at this point. The accident is still under investigation.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When I read about a crash like this, the most pressing question is how the two vehicles ended up in each other’s path. Head-on collisions with large trucks are particularly dangerous, and understanding what led to this one is key to determining accountability and whether anything could have been done to prevent it.

One of the first things investigators should consider is whether the Honda Pilot veered into oncoming traffic, and if so, why. Was the driver distracted or fatigued? Investigators should also consider whether there were external factors at play, such as poor visibility, road hazards or even an attempt to avoid another vehicle.

Mechanical failures are another possibility. If the Honda experienced a steering or brake issue, that could explain how it ended up in the truck’s lane. A full vehicle inspection and an examination of maintenance records could help determine if equipment failure played a role.

The semi-truck driver’s actions should also be reviewed. Was the truck traveling at a safe speed for the conditions? Did the driver have time to react and attempt to avoid the collision? Reviewing dashcam footage, ECM (black box) data and witness statements can help clarify what happened in the moments leading up to impact.

Additionally, the design and condition of State Road 19 should not be overlooked. Was this stretch of road properly marked with lane dividers and signage? Were there any known hazards, such as sharp curves or inadequate lighting, that could have contributed to the crash? Many rural highways lack median barriers, making head-on collisions more likely if a driver drifts out of their lane.

Crashes like this serve as reminders of how quickly things can go wrong when passenger vehicles and large trucks share the road. A full investigation should examine all possible factors to determine exactly what happened. For those affected, getting a clear understanding of the cause is an important step toward ensuring accountability and preventing future incidents.