Result of investigation for massive Gainesville Interstate pile up with fatalites: FHP mistake.

[Baitball Blogger]

This is interesting. Anyone know what kind of civil liabilities are going to be involved now that the investigation determined that the FHP was at fault? I think it's precedent setting that the results of the investigation were reported at all.

FHP erred by reopening I-75 before massive fatal crash, report says

A Florida Highway Patrol lieutenant who ordered the reopening of a fog- and smoke-shrouded interstate highway shortly before a series of crashes killed 11 people was unaware of the agency's procedures and had no formal training in opening and reopening roads, a state report said Thursday.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement report concluded troopers made errors but found no criminal violations.

Highway Patrol Sgt. Bruce Simmons expressed concerns about reopening Interstate 75 in north Florida in January, but Lt. John Gourley gave the order because he was worried keeping the highway closed also would be dangerous.

At least a dozen cars, pickup trucks and a van, six semi-trailer trucks and a motorhome collided in north Florida near Gainesville. Some vehicles burst into flames, making it difficult to identify the victims.

http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2012-04-26/news/os-i-75-crash-report-20120426_1_massive-pileup-vehicles-burst-fog-and-smoke-shrouded

[TwilightGardener]

1. That's a pretty big mistake. I feel bad for the crash victims, but also for

the guy who made the decision. He has to live with that for the rest of his life.

[Baitball Blogger]

3. It's tragic all the way around.

But it's helpful to know how these things develop so that A) the FHP learns from its mistakes; and B) the public are aware that the FHP are not infallible and, therefore, should err on the side of caution when they're driving Florida's highways.

[ewagner]

2. Basics of negligence:

Was a duty owed?

Was that duty breached?