A pedestrian died early on Sunday, June 17, at the intersection of State Road 207 and U.S. 1 after being struck by a Florida state trooper who was responding to a call.
The accident occurred at approximately 2:10 a.m. The 61-year-old trooper was reportedly heading south on U.S. 1 when he saw a suspected drunk driver. He attempted to make a U-turn to catch up with the impaired driver, but hit the pedestrian in the process.
The trooper is a part of the FHP’s DUI unit. According to the FHP, he did not have his lights or siren on while making the U-turn, but the dash camera was in operation. The video will not be released to the public, because it is an important piece of evidence in the investigation. Montgomery was not injured in the crash, but the cruiser sustained front-end damage and had to be towed away. The trooper will remain on the force in his normal duties, and will be offered counseling.
FHP investigators believe the 33-year-old pedestrian, who was homeless and had a history of DUI, was impaired while crossing the street. He was transported to Flagler Hospital, where he was pronounced dead of his injuries.
Liability for police officers
Police officers who have their lights and sirens flashing do not have to obey many of the same rules of the road that bind regular drivers. However, when their lights and sirens are not on, they still are subject to the same rules, including checking to see if the way is clear before making a U-turn.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a police officer or another government official, meet with a skilled Bradenton personal injury lawyer at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh.