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FDOT: Contractor gathering materials to install signs at dangerous Congress Avenue ramp on I-95

Posted at 11:17 PM, Apr 12, 2017
and last updated 2017-04-13 08:33:55-04

The Florida Department of Transportation says a contractor has 30 days to gather materials before workers set a date to install signs near a dangerous I-95 south ramp on Congress Avenue.

RELATED: Tow truck worker dies in fall from I-95 overpass

Wednesday tragedy struck when tow truck driver Richard Randolph of Boca Raton responded to move the truck and fell off the overpass onto I-95.

A statement released by the truck driver's boss, Jorge Rodriguez, owner of Jjr Transport & Logistic Inc. says, "I feel sorry for the tragedy. My condolences go out to all of the family. I know somebody lost their life in the line of duty."

FHP cited Figueredo for making an improper left turn and driving over the 11-hour limit in a 14-hour period. Rodriguez said even with the being the case, the Congress Avenue ramp is a huge hazard. Other truck drivers agree.

"This needs a stop light," said truck driver Steven Riddell of Missouri.

Riddell usually takes the Turnpike when he travels down to Miami, but says looking at video of the Congress Avenue ramp on I-95 south, it's clear there needs to be signage.

"90-degree turn up ahead," said Riddell.

Rodriguez said his driver was on the way down to Miami to make a delivery. He is not sure why Figueredo made a stop on Congress Avenue. Riddell said he tries to be familiar with the on and off ramps he uses.

"With today's technology, you can pick a truck stop anywhere on Apple, on your iPhone, it's really easy," Riddell added.

FDOT is assessing the damages from the crash. OSHA is also investigating if there were any safety violations. 

Widow Remembers Killed Tow Trucker Driver

The widow of Richard Randolph said Wednesday that her husband was thorough in his work and never took risks.

Judy Randolph said he was a veteran in the business and always took safety protocols into account.

FHP says Richard Randolph was trying to secure the semi when he fell off the overpass.

"He was the best at what he did, and he loved his job and loved the people he worked for. They're a wonderful family," said widow Judy Randolph.

Richard, an employee with Emerald Towing in Pompano Beach, was close to retirement before the tragedy.

The company suffered another loss in 2012 when an employee was killed on the side of the road while assisting the Florida Highway Patrol.