September 2, 2025

A devastating accident took place on Interstate 75 in Hillsborough County, Florida, claiming the life of a 27-year-old pedestrian from Riverview. This tragic incident unfolded in the early hours of Thursday, August 28, 2025.

Accident Details on I-75

According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the fatal incident occurred near Milepost 247 in the Gibsonton area. The woman's Nissan Altima became disabled on the southbound lanes' shoulder. For reasons still under investigation, she exited the Altima and entered the roadway.

A 25-year-old Sarasota woman, driving a southbound Kia Sportage, struck the woman, resulting in fatal injuries declared at the scene. The Kia's driver remained unharmed.

Understanding Roadway Risks

This tragedy underscores the extreme dangers pedestrians face when exiting vehicles on high-speed highways. Factors such as low visibility and high-speed traffic significantly increase fatality risks. Pedestrian accidents on highways like I-75 highlight the urgency of road safety measures in Florida, where pedestrian fatalities are on the rise.

Safety Measures During Roadside Emergencies

When a vehicle becomes disabled on the highway, safety is paramount. Experts recommend:

• Pulling over as far as possible onto the shoulder
• Activating hazard lights immediately
• Remaining in the vehicle if safe, while calling for roadside assistance
• Exiting only from the side away from traffic, if necessary
• Avoiding any movement into active traffic lanes, especially at night

Community Mourns Riverview Loss

As the FHP continues to investigate, the community mourns the unnamed victim. Her loss resonates deeply, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness and caution on the roadways by both drivers and pedestrians.

This incident serves as a solemn reminder of the unpredictable nature of road incidents and the critical importance of following safety guidelines.