Experiencing a flat tire is a frustrating problem and can become problematic when on a busy roadway, interstate, or a highway. According to the National Safety Council, a person should do certain things to remain safe when they encounter a tire problem on a highway. If at all possible, you should work your vehicle towards an exit or the breakdown lane. Get as far off the side of the road as possible to help to ensure that you are not at risk of being hit in the rear of your vehicle. Turn on your emergency flashers. Once you are off the roadway, if you have an emergency kit, put the reflecting triangles behind your vehicle to alert other drivers. Then, if you are able, change the tire or contact a roadside assistance service.
The Bradenton Herald reports that three people were killed in a seven-vehicle pileup that shut down Interstate 75 for hours.
The crash was reported at 7:10 A.M. on Monday, just north of the Fruitville Road interchange.
Two of the vehicles involved in the multi-vehicle wreck were legally parked on the side of the shoulder of the interstate. The drivers of the vehicles were outside their parked trucks, attempting to change a tire on one of the trucks.
A Dodge Dakota hit the two pedestrians, killing one. The other pedestrian was critically injured. The driver of the Dakota was also killed in the accident.
Additionally, a cement truck became involved in the crash, killing the driver of that vehicle.
Three other vehicles were traveling northbound on Interstate 75 that became involved in the accident.
One of the drivers of those vehicles suffered from serious injuries. The others suffered from minor injuries.
The exact cause of the accident is still under investigation.