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FDOT Ranger cited for careless driving after February Buckman Bridge crash

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A citation was given to an FDOT Road Ranger after a 61-year-old man was killed after his Toyota pickup truck was struck from behind by a Florida Department of Transportation Road Ranger on the Buckman Bridge on Feb. 28, the Florida Highway Patrol said.

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When the crash first happened, 23-year-old Lydell Correia driving the FDOT Road Ranger was questioned by Florida Highway Patrol.

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The citation indicates Correia will owe a $164 fine to Duval County Courts.

Action News Jax Alexus Cleavenger went to Correia’s house to ask what he was doing leading up to the crash and what would make officers cite him for careless driving, but no one was home.

Alexus Cleavenger also called a family member of the 61-year-old who died in the crash but got no answer and left a message.

Correia’s court records show two other traffic citations dating back to last year.

Related Story: Deadly crash on Buckman Bridge, vehicle into St. Johns River

He was first cited in March of 2022 for speeding.

According to that citation, he was going 54 in a 45. Two months later, another traffic citation indicates he was speeding again, going 50 in a 40.

Action News Jax Law and Safety Expert Dale Carson put the Buckman crash citation into perspective.

Action News Jax Alexus Cleavenger asked Carson if it is typical that there are no criminal charges here.

“This was not done intentionally,” said Carson. “When you are careless and somebody gets hurt, yes you’re charged, but the penalty is simply that, it is 164 dollars court costs.”

We reached out to the FDOT, and they shared that Correia is still employed.

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They also provided the following information regarding requirements for Road Rangers:

FDOT requires a criminal background check, clear driving records (free from felony and criminal charges), drug-free screening and an active driver’s license. Per contract requirements, following initial employment and verifications, driver’s license checks are to be performed by the Vendor every 6 months.