Coconut Creek, FL (March 18, 2025) – A 30-year-old motorcyclist, Dajuanye Winters of Pompano Beach, was killed in a crash involving a semi-truck on March 18, 2025, according to the Broward Sheriff’s Office.
Accident Details: The fatal incident took place around 3:52 p.m. on North Powerline Road near the 1900 block. Winters was riding a 2019 Yamaha motorcycle southbound in the far-left lane. A semi-truck driven by Alexis Rodriguez, 54, of Deerfield Beach, reportedly made a left turn across the southbound lanes to enter a nearby warehouse district.
According to authorities, Winters braked to avoid a collision but could not stop in time. The motorcycle passed into the center lane and struck the back of the semi. Winters was ejected and sustained fatal injuries at the scene.
The truck driver stopped, returned to the area, and inspected his vehicle. Finding no damage, he thought he was not involved and proceeded to a loading dock. He later observed chipped paint on his trailer that matched the motorcycle and cooperated when contacted by authorities. The Broward Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit is continuing its investigation.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: This crash raises significant legal questions regarding left-turn liability and driver awareness. Under traffic law, a driver turning left across oncoming traffic must yield the right-of-way until it is safe to proceed. Authorities will determine if the truck driver misjudged the speed or distance of the approaching motorcycle or failed to ensure the lane was clear.
Investigators will examine factors like visibility, truck size, and whether Winters was operating at a safe speed for conditions. Investigators may also consider whether lane positioning or blind spots played a role.
Another legal question arises from Rodriguez leaving the scene after checking his truck. While he later discovered the damage and cooperated with police, the initial departure could complicate matters if it’s found he should have known an impact occurred. Authorities will likely review dashcam footage, vehicle damage, skid marks, and witness testimony to reconstruct the timeline.
Depending on the facts of the investigation, Winters’s family may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim.
I extend my condolences to the family and loved ones of Dajuanye Winters.
Source: TAPinto