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The
Importance of
Commercial Truck Insurance in Winter Haven, FL
- Let's face it - truckers in America have always been the backbone of our great country. They still are in modern times. On any given day, thousands of trucks traverse our highways and local roads, delivering goods and products on time so that businesses and consumers have what they need to live life. And while commercial trucking can be an incredibly lucrative way to make a living and put food on the table, it can also be risky and expensive.
- Whether you're the owner of a fleet, an independent trucker, or have a business that uses big rigs to transport goods, you need commercial trucking insurance to protect you and your client's investments, shield you from liability, and more.
- That's where working with a reliable truck insurance agency comes into play. Unfortunately, for many commercial truck insurance providers, serving the needs of truckers is low on the proverbial totem pole. At Independence Insurance Agency, nothing could be further from the truth.
Service Areas
The Commercial Truck
Insurance Agency in Winter Haven, FL You Can Trust
Much like you pride yourself on running a successful trucking business, Independence Insurance Agency prides itself on its years of experience providing truck insurance for hardworking men and women across the country. And in our experience, insurance rates for truckers are just too high - so high, in fact, that they eat away at their bottom line, making it more difficult to run a business and make a profit. Fortunately, at Independence Insurance Agency, we provide truckers the freedom they need from astronomically high insurance rates so they can stay on the road and keep driving America forward.
As one of the most trusted commercial trucking insurance agencies in the U.S., we understand the challenges that you face daily as a trucker. We also know how important it is to protect your business. That's why we go above and beyond to find you the best-priced coverage available, whether you're an operator, own a small fleet, a large fleet, or something in between.
We Put Truckers First Because Others Don't
Truckers across the country choose to work with Independence Insurance Agency because we put their needs first before anything else. As experts in transportation insurance, we proudly offer a range of quality insurance products that are both practical and affordable for them. Our industry-leading carriers provide coverage that caters to the unique challenges faced by the trucking industry, ensuring that your business is protected at all times.
At our core, we are committed to finding the best possible price for your coverage without compromising the quality of service you deserve. The truth is, we understand how essential truckers are to the United States and take pride in making their insurance experience more streamlined and affordable.
One way we do so is by simplifying the insurance process. Our transportation specialists take the time to understand your specific needs and budget to tailor a comprehensive plan that works for you. You won't ever have to worry about cookie-cutter plans or uninterested agents when you work with our commercial trucking insurance agency. We take an educational approach to ensure that the entire big rig insurance process is quick, painless, and easy to understand. If there's something you don't understand, we're happy to take the time to explain. After all, the success and safety of your business are on the line.
Looking to the future, we are committed to providing innovative new products that cater to the ever-changing needs of truck drivers. As your one-stop shop for commercial trucking insurance, we are dedicated to your success, one policy at a time.
If you're a commercial trucker looking to ensure your rig, you can rest easy knowing that Independence Insurance Agency provides:
- Affordable Trucking Insurance Plans for Any Budget
- Exemplary Customer Service
- Seasoned Transportation Specialists Who Customize Plans to Your Needs
- A+ Carriers Across the Country
- Simple, Easy Quote and Bind Process
- Multiple Insurance Carriers Quoted to Find You the Best Rates
- Truck Insurance for New Ventures
Call us or send us a message today to learn more about the best 18-wheeler insurance options for your trucking business.
The Commercial Truck
Common Types of Big Rig Truck Insurance in Winter Haven, FL
At Independence Insurance Agency, we offer several types of insurance coverage for local, intermediate, and long-haul trucking needs. Here are just a few categories of trucking insurance coverage that our agency offers.
As the foundation of your insurance policy, liability coverage is required by law in most states in the U.S. It provides coverage for damage or injuries caused to properties or other people if your 18-wheeler is responsible for the crash. Without liability coverage, it's almost impossible to drive a truck or run a trucking business without major legal consequences.
Having physical damage coverage is an essential component that shouldn't be overlooked. This insurance is responsible for covering the expenses related to repairing or replacing your truck in situations such as accidents, theft, vandalism, and other damaging events. By having this coverage, you can rest assured that your business won't be affected significantly by unexpected incidents, and you can continue running your operations smoothly even in challenging times.
For trucking companies, the goods they transport are crucial to their operations. To protect these goods from damage, loss, or theft while in transit, cargo insurance is essential. This coverage provides much-needed peace of mind for both you and your clients, allowing you to reimburse clients for any losses sustained while protecting your reputation and brand identity.
Non-Trucking Liability Insurance is designed to cover property damage or bodily injury that may occur during personal time when the driver/truck is not under dispatch. This coverage can be applied with or without a trailer and is added to a commercial policy as an endorsement.
While Independence Insurance Agency has built a reputation of excellence in serving the needs of truckers, we also offer general liability. Also known as Truckers General Liability, this coverage insures for bodily injuries or property damage that happen due to business activities that are NOT the cause of operating a truck. It covers accidents that occur in parking lots, rest stops, also while loading or unloading. General liability can also cover losses related to theft and vandalism. Most brokers and shippers will require this coverage to work with you.
Bobtail insurance is a type of coverage that is comparable to non-trucking liability, which is designed to offer protection when driving a truck without a trailer attached. This is commonly referred to as "bobtailing." With bobtail insurance, the tractor is covered at all times, even when it is not attached to a trailer, regardless of whether or not the truck is under dispatch.
Trailer interchange insurance is a must-have if you're involved in a trailer interchange agreement. This essential coverage offers protection for trailers owned by other parties that you're using under a contractual agreement. It covers damages caused by collisions, fire, theft, and vandalism, providing assurance to all parties involved.
Curious whether our commercial truck insurance agency in cityname, state offers additional coverage? The following options can be bound in your insurance policy:
- Business Interruption Insurance
- Reefer Breakdown Insurance
- Occupational Accident with Contract Liability Insurance
- Rental Reimbursement Insurance
- Underinsured or Uninsured Motorist Insurance
- Towing Insurance
- Electronics Insurance
- Much More
3 Safe Driving Tips to
Lower the Cost of Truck Insurance in Winter Haven, FL
Keeping your drivers safe on the road is crucial not only for their own well-being but also for the safety of other motorists and the financial stability of your business. The Department of Labor has identified the trucking industry as one of the most hazardous sectors in the U.S. In fact, trucking and logistics fleets are known for their high injury and fatality rates. By improving how safely your truckers drive, you can help reduce expenses related to claim payouts, accidents, and insurance premium hikes.
Whether you own a large fleet or you're the owner and operator of a single rig, keep these safe driving tips in mind to help lower your insurance costs.
Implement Preventative Maintenance Plans
Ensuring the safety of your drivers begins with the safety of their vehicles. Trucks and tractor-trailers that do not receive regular maintenance, such as oil and brake pad changes, are more likely to experience breakdowns while on the road. Telematics devices provide real-time insight into engine and odometer data, including fault codes.
This information enables your mechanics to create comprehensive preventative maintenance schedules based on mileage, history of previous breakdowns, days, and more. Additionally, they can receive immediate notifications for critical fault codes. By implementing routine maintenance and proactive repair schedules, you can ensure that your vehicles are in top condition, minimizing the likelihood of breakdowns, which can help reduce the cost of trucker insurance.
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Practice Defensive Driving
This approach aims to mitigate the risk of fatal crashes and injuries by proactively identifying and responding to potentially dangerous situations and making informed decisions while driving. By adopting defensive driving techniques, drivers can reduce their likelihood of accidents, thereby minimizing the need for expensive repairs, claim payouts, and increased insurance premiums.
Some of the easiest ways for you or your drivers to practice safe driving include:
- Be Wary of Blind Spots: Operating a reefer or tractor-trailer means driving high off of the ground, which can make visibility limited, especially in blind spots. To check your blind spot, look over your shoulder and out of your windows while changing lanes.
- Be Ready for Emergencies on the Road: It's important for drivers to be ready for unexpected situations when driving, especially during long trips. They should be equipped to handle emergencies such as poor driving conditions or big rig breakdowns.
- Use the Three-Second Rule: Truck drivers should try to maintain a three-second gap between their vehicle and the car in front of them. This means that the truck driver should reach a certain point on the road three seconds after the car in front of them has passed that same point.
- Always Use Right and Left Turn Indicators: It's important for drivers to always use their turn signals when changing lanes or exiting highways, even if they don't see any other cars around. This is not only required by law, but it also reduces the chances of accidents occurring on the road.
Call Now
Find Ways to Prevent Distracted Driving
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), distracted driving is the primary reason behind truck driver accidents. Any activity that takes a driver's attention away from the road or the steering wheel is considered distracted driving. Distractions can come in various forms, such as eating while driving or gazing at a billboard outside the window. However, the most frequent form of distracted driving is the use of cellphones, specifically texting while driving.
Assuming you or your driver's rigs are equipped with dual-facing cameras, try reviewing footage of an unsafe driving incident. Coach your drivers on ways to correct their unsafe behaviors or look up ways to do so yourself if you're the one operating the big rig. The bottom line is that when your drivers aren't distracted, they drive safer. And when they drive safer, the cost of 18-wheeler insurance in cityname, state can be reduced.
Call Now
Ensuring the safety of your drivers begins with the safety of their vehicles. Trucks and tractor-trailers that do not receive regular maintenance, such as oil and brake pad changes, are more likely to experience breakdowns while on the road. Telematics devices provide real-time insight into engine and odometer data, including fault codes.
This information enables your mechanics to create comprehensive preventative maintenance schedules based on mileage, history of previous breakdowns, days, and more. Additionally, they can receive immediate notifications for critical fault codes. By implementing routine maintenance and proactive repair schedules, you can ensure that your vehicles are in top condition, minimizing the likelihood of breakdowns, which can help reduce the cost of trucker insurance.
Call Now
This approach aims to mitigate the risk of fatal crashes and injuries by proactively identifying and responding to potentially dangerous situations and making informed decisions while driving. By adopting defensive driving techniques, drivers can reduce their likelihood of accidents, thereby minimizing the need for expensive repairs, claim payouts, and increased insurance premiums.
Some of the easiest ways for you or your drivers to practice safe driving include:
- Be Wary of Blind Spots: Operating a reefer or tractor-trailer means driving high off of the ground, which can make visibility limited, especially in blind spots. To check your blind spot, look over your shoulder and out of your windows while changing lanes.
- Be Ready for Emergencies on the Road: It's important for drivers to be ready for unexpected situations when driving, especially during long trips. They should be equipped to handle emergencies such as poor driving conditions or big rig breakdowns.
- Use the Three-Second Rule: Truck drivers should try to maintain a three-second gap between their vehicle and the car in front of them. This means that the truck driver should reach a certain point on the road three seconds after the car in front of them has passed that same point.
- Always Use Right and Left Turn Indicators: It's important for drivers to always use their turn signals when changing lanes or exiting highways, even if they don't see any other cars around. This is not only required by law, but it also reduces the chances of accidents occurring on the road.
Call Now
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), distracted driving is the primary reason behind truck driver accidents. Any activity that takes a driver's attention away from the road or the steering wheel is considered distracted driving. Distractions can come in various forms, such as eating while driving or gazing at a billboard outside the window. However, the most frequent form of distracted driving is the use of cellphones, specifically texting while driving.
Assuming you or your driver's rigs are equipped with dual-facing cameras, try reviewing footage of an unsafe driving incident. Coach your drivers on ways to correct their unsafe behaviors or look up ways to do so yourself if you're the one operating the big rig. The bottom line is that when your drivers aren't distracted, they drive safer. And when they drive safer, the cost of 18-wheeler insurance in cityname, state can be reduced.
Call Now
FAQs About
Independence Insurance Agency
If you're looking for a commercial trucking insurance agency for your business, chances are you have some questions - and we've got answers. Keep reading to learn more about some of the most commonly asked questions we hear from truckers like you.
Why go with a "jack of all trades" when you can work with specialists who focus exclusively on transportation insurance? We have excellent relationships with major trucking insurance carriers and, as such, can provide the best assistance and reasonable rates.
Typically, companies will look at claims that date back three years or less.
We proudly work with more than 20 carriers to provide our clients with the most advantageous options at competitive prices, catering to the needs of owner-operators and big fleets alike.
Permit filings are typically done by insurance companies on the next business day. Federal (FMCSA) filings are completed online and updated immediately, while some states may take up to three weeks to process.
Independence Insurance Agency: Committed to the Trucking Industry
There's no question about it - you've got to protect your staff, your rig, and your trucking business with insurance. But choosing the right insurance partner isn't always easy. Thankfully, with Independence Insurance Agency by your side, you can rest easy knowing you're covered no matter where the road takes you. If you're in need of a commercial truck insurance agency in Winter Haven, FL that caters to truckers like you, pick up the phone and contact one of our transportation specialists today. That way, you can get back on the road with confidence tomorrow.
Latest News in Winter Haven, FL
Best Internet Providers in Winter Haven, Florida
CNEThttps://www.cnet.com/home/internet/best-internet-providers-in-winter-haven-fl/
What is the best internet provider in Winter Haven?Offering wide coverage and low costs for residential broadband, Spectrum is CNET's top pick for internet service in Winter Haven, Florida. Spectrum also comes with simple service details, including unlimited data and free equipment, meaning you won't have to worry about added fees. That being said, Frontier and T-Mobile also serve select Winter Havenites and are worth checking out if they're available at your address.If you're looking for th...
What is the best internet provider in Winter Haven?
Offering wide coverage and low costs for residential broadband, Spectrum is CNET's top pick for internet service in Winter Haven, Florida. Spectrum also comes with simple service details, including unlimited data and free equipment, meaning you won't have to worry about added fees. That being said, Frontier and T-Mobile also serve select Winter Havenites and are worth checking out if they're available at your address.
If you're looking for the most affordable service in Winter Haven, Spectrum offers two cheap plans that won't break your budget: $25 for 50 megabits per second and $30 for 100Mbps. The $25 plan is available to qualifying low-income households, while everyone serviceable for Spectrum in Winter Haven can take advantage of the provider's $30, 100Mbps deal.
Have a need for speed? Frontier Fiber leaves competition in the dust with its 5-gigabit plan, which costs $155 a month with no data caps or equipment fees. Frontier also offers a 2-gigabit plan for $100 if 5,000Mbps is more speed than you need.
Our methodology
CNET considers speeds, pricing, customer service and overall value to recommend the best internet service in Winter Haven across several categories. Our evaluation includes referencing a proprietary database built over years of reviewing internet services. We validate that against provider information by spot-checking local addresses for service availability. We also do a close read of providers' terms and conditions and, when needed, will call ISPs to verify the details.
Despite our efforts to find the most recent and accurate information, our process has some limitations you should know about. Pricing and speed data are variable: certain addresses may qualify for different service tiers, and monthly costs may vary, even within a city. The best way to identify your particular options is to plug your address into a provider's website.
The prices, speed and other information listed above and in the provider cards below may differ from what we found in our research. The cards display the full range of a provider's pricing and speed across the US, according to our database of plan information provided directly by ISPs. At the same time, the text is specific to what’s available in Winter Haven. The prices referenced in this article's text come from our research and include applicable discounts for setting up automatic payments each month -- a standard industry offering. Other discounts and promotions might also be available for things like signing a term contract or bundling with multiple services.
To learn more about how we review internet providers, visit our full methodology page.
Best internet in Winter Haven, Florida, in 2024
3 Internet providers
Best internet provider in Winter Haven, FL
Our take - Winter Haven's largest internet provider, Spectrum offers service to over 93% of addresses. This cable ISP offers five plans under its network, ranging in speed from 50Mbps up to 1,000Mbps. Although prices vary based on location, almost all residents can pay as little as $25 for service with no data caps, modem fee or required contracts.
...
Check with Spectrum
Connection
Cable
Speed range
100 - 1,000 Mbps
Price range
$30- $90 per month
Show more details
Fastest internet in Winter Haven, FL
Our take - Frontier Fiber offers lightening-fast connectivity that can't be beaten in Winter Haven. With symmetrical speeds up to 5 gigabits -- or 5,000Mbps -- Frontier's plans also include unlimited data and equipment for no extra charge. Plus, Frontier doesn't offer introductory pricing, so your bill won't automatically go up after 12 or 24 months.
Check with Frontier
Connection
Fiber
Price range
$50 - $155 per month
Show more details
Best fixed wireless in Winter Haven, FL
Our take - Costing $60 a month, T-Mobile Home Internet comes with speeds up to 245Mbps and simple service details. T-Mobile Home Internet boasts all-inclusive pricing, meaning unlimited data and equipment are included in that $60 monthly fee. You won't have to worry about signing a contract to pay the lowest price for service either.
..
Check with T-Mobile
Connection
Fixed wireless
Speed range
72 - 245 Mbps
Show more details
Source: CNET analysis of provider data.
Source: CNET analysis of provider data.
How to find internet deals and promotions in Winter Haven
The best internet deals and top promotions in Winter Haven depend on what discounts are available during that period. Most deals are short-lived, but we look frequently for the latest offers.
Winter Haven internet providers, such as Spectrum, may offer lower introductory pricing or streaming add-ons for a limited time. Others, however, such as Frontier and Verizon, run the same standard pricing year-round.
For a more extensive list of promos, check out our guide on the best internet deals.
Source: CNET analysis of provider data.
What’s a good internet speed?
Most internet connection plans can now handle basic productivity and communication tasks. If you're looking for an internet plan that can accommodate videoconferencing, streaming video or gaming, you'll have a better experience with a more robust connection. Here's an overview of the recommended minimum download speeds for various applications, according to the FCC. Note that these are only guidelines -- and that internet speed, service and performance vary by connection type, provider and address.
For more information, refer to our guide on how much internet speed you really need.
How CNET chose the best internet providers in Winter Haven
Internet service providers are numerous and regional. Unlike the latest smartphone, laptop, router or kitchen tool, it’s impractical to personally test every ISP in a given city. So what’s our approach? We start by researching the pricing, availability and speed information, drawing on our own historical ISP data, the provider sites and mapping information from the Federal Communications Commission at FCC.gov.
But it doesn’t end there. We go to the FCC’s website to check our data and ensure we consider every ISP that provides service in an area. We also input local addresses on provider websites to find specific options for residents. We look at sources, including the American Customer Satisfaction Index and J.D. Power, to evaluate how happy customers are with an ISP’s service. ISP plans and prices are subject to frequent changes; all information provided is accurate as of publication.
Once we have this localized information, we ask three main questions:
While the answer to those questions is often layered and complex, the providers who come closest to “yes” on all three are the ones we recommend. When selecting the cheapest internet service, we look for the plans with the lowest monthly fee, though we also factor in things like price increases, equipment fees and contracts. Choosing the fastest internet service is relatively straightforward. We look at advertised upload and download speeds and also consider real-world speed data from sources like Ookla and FCC reports.
To explore our process in more depth, visit our how we test ISPs page.
Sonny’s BBQ to Return to Winter Haven Dining Scene
MARIA IANNUCCI Contributing Writerhttps://www.midfloridanewspapers.com/winter_haven_sun/sonny-s-bbq-to-return-to-winter-haven-dining-scene/article_21a6be20-87b4-11ee-8d93-cfa3c1f86ab4.html
If you’ve been missing your Pitmaster Picks, Big Deals and Sidekicks, fret not. Sonny’s BBQ is planning a return to the Winter Haven area in 2024.The long-standing barbecue restaurant chain closed the location at 4600 Recker Hwy. in August of last year, “after 36 years of serving the Winter Haven community,” says Tara Boyle, Senior Marketing Manager for ACG BBQ, LLC, the franchise company opening the new restaurant. Boyle advises that owners of the previous location are not involved with their franchise and the...
If you’ve been missing your Pitmaster Picks, Big Deals and Sidekicks, fret not. Sonny’s BBQ is planning a return to the Winter Haven area in 2024.
The long-standing barbecue restaurant chain closed the location at 4600 Recker Hwy. in August of last year, “after 36 years of serving the Winter Haven community,” says Tara Boyle, Senior Marketing Manager for ACG BBQ, LLC, the franchise company opening the new restaurant. Boyle advises that owners of the previous location are not involved with their franchise and the new restaurant.
The franchise submitted their Application for Site Plan Approval to the City of Winter Haven on documents dated Sept. 13, 2023. The proposed building will be set on 1.84 acres at the northwest corner of US 17 and Avenue O SW. The present use of the property is said to be “undeveloped.”
Eric Labbe, AICP Director of Economic Opportunity & Community Investment, shares his thoughts on plans for growth within the city.
“Infill development of vacant or legacy parcels in the core area of the city is a smart growth strategy the city has been focused on for some time. We are excited that Sonny’s will be opening their newest location in Winter Haven … providing another dining option for our residents and guests.”
Boyle says the franchise is excited to continue working with the city as they take steps towards construction.
“The project is currently on track, and we’re hopeful that we can break ground early next year! We’re anticipating that it will be open and serving the Winter Haven community by the end of next year!”
The location is planned to employ around 60 workers and will be looking to hire closer to the restaurant’s opening.
Sonny’s BBQ’s building format at this site “will be the first of its kind, with a slightly smaller total square footage than our other restaurants,” says Boyle. “With 3,900 square feet, this new location will feature a drive-thru, take-out window, and central bar. There will be 123 seats and 5 curbside spots.
According to Boyle, the team behind the franchise is working hard to partner with the city as they move through the application and planning phase.
“The decision to establish a new location was the result of careful consideration that was guided by a strong connection and affinity with this special place,” says Boyle. “We’re eager to return to the Winter Haven community and look forward to serving our valued guests for many years to come. It’s a testament to the relationships we have built in Winter Haven, and we look forward to creating new memories with each and every one of you.”
Historic photos: See what Florida's first Publix supermarket looked like
The News-Presshttps://www.news-press.com/story/money/companies/2024/02/01/photos-show-what-floridas-first-publix-in-winter-haven-looked-like-grocery-store-shopping-pleasure/72405939007/
Mark H. BickelThroughout history, a long list of firsts have taken place. First car. First flight in space. First smartphone. You name it, there's a "first" attached to it.People who live in Florida might be interested in another kind of first: When and where was the first Publix in the Sunshine State? The answer is Winter Haven. ...
Throughout history, a long list of firsts have taken place. First car. First flight in space. First smartphone. You name it, there's a "first" attached to it.
People who live in Florida might be interested in another kind of first: When and where was the first Publix in the Sunshine State? The answer is Winter Haven. According to the Publix website, the first Publix Food Store opened on Sept. 6, 1930. Today, Publix is one of the biggest supermarket companies in the country with more than 1,200 stores in seven states.
These seven historic photos from the State Archives of Florida show what the first Publix supermarket in Winter Have looked like. It opened in Winter Haven in1940, a few years after the Publix Food Store opened, and was the beginning of the Publix supermarkets we know today.
Publix is a place "where shopping is a pleasure" and we think this walk own Memory Lane will also be a pleasure.
What the first Publix supermarket in Florida looked like from the outside
On Sept. 6, 1930, George Jenkins opened the first Publix location, known then as Publix Food Store, in Winter Haven, Florida.
Check-out lanes at Florida's first Publix supermarket
By 1935, Jenkins opened his second location on the opposite side of Winter Haven.
What the first Publix supermarket in Florida looked like inside
In 1940, Jenkins expanded Publix Food Store into "the Publix of his dreams", located in Winter Haven, Florida. The Publix supermarket was born
The produce section at the first Florida Publix supermarket
Jenkins’ dream store followed an art deco design and was known as a “state-of-the-art food palace of marble, glass and stucco.”
Another view of the first Publix supermarket produce section
By the end of the 1940s, there were 20 Publix locations in Florida.
Where some of the magic happens: First Publix supermarket bakery
Did you know? In the 1990s Publix uniforms and store interiors changed , featuring the colors coral and teal.
One more view from the outside of Florida's first Publix supermarket
Today, that first Publix brick-and-mortar building is still standing, occupied by a restaurant called Tempo 1930.
Winter Haven crash leaves 7 injured, deputies investigate whether street-racing caused it
Carla Bayronhttps://www.fox13news.com/news/winter-haven-crash-leaves-7-injured-deputies-investigate-whether-street-racing-caused-it
Deputies with the Polk County Sheriff's Office are investigating whether street racing was the cause of a crash that left seven people hurt, including children.Vanesa Cornejo and her boyfriend, Anthony Neves, were heading east on Havendale Boulevard Thursday night and were turning onto 29th Street."As I was pulling out of Havendale onto the street, I looked back in my rearview mirror and all I saw was a ball of flames going across,"...
Deputies with the Polk County Sheriff's Office are investigating whether street racing was the cause of a crash that left seven people hurt, including children.
Vanesa Cornejo and her boyfriend, Anthony Neves, were heading east on Havendale Boulevard Thursday night and were turning onto 29th Street.
"As I was pulling out of Havendale onto the street, I looked back in my rearview mirror and all I saw was a ball of flames going across," said Cornejo.
They immediately pulled over and ran to where a smashed black car had been pushed into the westbound lanes. They saw a young boy on the ground who had been thrown from the car.
"I took off my jacket, because it was cold and covered him with it," said Neeves. "Your parent instincts kick in for any child that you see."
The couple then helped to pull another child out of the black car which had been occupied by four children, a mother and grandmother. They didn't see the actual collision happen, but they did see a white car that was also damaged at the scene.
"After I saw the ball of fire, I saw at least two other vehicles that passed by it going way too fast," said Cornejo.
Polk Fire Rescue said seven people total were hurt. Three of them were children, who were taken by helicopter to the hospital, and thankfully, didn't suffer serious injuries.
Deputies are currently investigating whether street racing was a factor in the crash.
"All hours of the night you can hear it. For being a small town, it dies around here around 9:30 and 10 o'clock and that's all you hear is cars racing up and down Havendale and 92," said Erin Tackett who lives nearby.
People are fed up with the reckless behavior and are pushing for change.
"This time it was a car. What would've happened if it was a pedestrian or family crossing the street?" said Cornejo.
"They got this little speed limit thing down here that says 45 miles per hour," said Neeves. "You're young, and you're going to show off or whatever. Trying to get the high score, but what's that going to get you? There needs to be more cops sitting out here."
A spokesperson for the sheriff's office said there haven't been any recent racing crashes on Havendale Boulevard.
In a statement to FOX 13, Sheriff Grady Judd said: "There are speeders on every road, and we give attention with extra patrols to trouble spots as needed. But, it is fiscally impossible to have deputies on every single road at all times — especially in a county the size of ours."
The crash is still under investigation and no one has been arrested.
Five qualify for elections to two seats on Winter Haven City Commission
The Ledgerhttps://www.theledger.com/story/news/politics/elections/local/2023/10/01/winter-haven-city-commission-election-will-have-2-contested-seats/71001161007/
Gary WhiteWinter Haven will hold elections for two seats on the City Commission in November, while two incumbents will receive additional terms without facing opposition....
Winter Haven will hold elections for two seats on the City Commission in November, while two incumbents will receive additional terms without facing opposition.
No one filed by the Sept. 22 qualifying deadline to challenge either Nathaniel J. Birdsong Jr. or Brian Yates. Birdsong, who serves in Seat 2, was first elected to the City Commission in 2002 and has been re-elected four times. He has served multiple times as mayor.
Yates, a bank executive, is in his first term on the board in Seat 3. He won the seat in 2019 without an election after Commissioner Pete Chichetto opted not to seek another term.
Polk County Commission:John Hall, who spent 8 years on commission, will run for his old seat
Seat 1
For Seat 1, incumbent Tracy Mercer will face opposition from Kim Davis. Mercer, a former utilities director for Winter Haven and Haines City, is in her first term after ousting incumbent William Twyford in 2019.
Mercer is a member of Winter Haven’s Community Redevelopment Agency Board. Davis is a real-estate agent.
Campaign finance violationsState attorney won't prosecute Polk School Board member Rick Nolte
Seat 5
Seat 5 is open following the death of Commissioner J.P. Powell in April. Three candidates have qualified to run for the seat: Johnathon Bush, Clifton Dollison and Tom D. Freijo.
Bush is a pastor at Southside Baptist Church in Winter Haven. Dollison is a pastor at First Missionary Baptist Church in Winter Haven.
Freijo, an executive recruiter, served on the Winter Haven City Commission in the late 1990s and did not seek re-election.
Nonpartisan elections will be held Nov. 7 for city commission races in Auburndale, Fort Meade, Lakeland and Winter Haven.
Gary White can be reached at gary.white@theledger.com or 863-802-7518. Follow on X @garywhite13.
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