A semi-truck driver reportedly fled the scene after causing an accident near a Freeport construction site, leading police on a hunt for him.
According to a Florida Highway Patrol news release, the incident occurred at around 9:45 a.m. the morning of Monday, March 26. The tractor-trailer was heading north in the outer lane of U.S. Highway 331 near Rock Hill Road. At the same time, a 23-year-old man from Panama City driving a Chevy Tahoe was trying to merge into the left lane while navigating lane closures due to road work in the area.
The man failed to safely change lanes, which caused his Tahoe to swipe the right side of the truck. It then struck an orange construction barrel and traveled into the left turn lane, finally coming to a rest facing north in the highway’s left-turn lane. The semi-truck, however, did not stop and continued on. The truck was described as a blue vehicle hauling a flatbed. Witnesses could not describe any identifying names, logos or other marks.
All drivers must stop after an accident
Whenever an accident involving multiple vehicles occurs, all parties involved must stay behind at the scene and wait for police to arrive — regardless of who caused the collision. Leaving the scene of an accident is a misdemeanor offense, and the severity of the criminal penalties one faces can increase if the crash resulted in injury or death.
If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident, it’s important to fully explore your legal options. Meet with a dedicated Sarasota auto accident lawyer at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh.