Driver Removed Seatbelt, Struck Median Guardrail on Polk Parkway

A single-vehicle crash occurred on the Polk Parkway on Monday January 19, 2026. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the incident took place near milepost 5 at approximately 11:05 a.m. A Lexus SUV, traveling eastbound, was driven by a 52-year-old man from Palm Harbor.

The driver removed his seatbelt to reach for an item on the passenger side. The distraction caused the vehicle to leave the roadway and strike the center median guardrail.

The driver sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Nothing further at this time.

SOURCE: FLORIDA HIGHWAY PATROL