Florida Highway Patrol is looking for the driver of a semi-truck involved in a fatal hit-and-run on June 15 near the Williston Road exit on I-75. Witnesses reported that the truck, described as having a black cab and white trailer, allegedly struck a pedestrian walking along the interstate’s shoulder around 8:55 a.m. The truck allegedly left the scene without stopping. The pedestrian, a 45-year-old Gainesville man, was pronounced dead.
In cases like this, where a pedestrian is struck and the commercial driver flees the scene, there are serious concerns that need to be examined closely.
What Could Have Led to the Collision?
One of the key questions in any pedestrian crash involving a semi-truck is whether the driver was paying attention. Fatigue, distraction, or inattention can lead to a driver not noticing someone on or near the roadway. If the driver drifted onto the shoulder or failed to respond to something clearly visible ahead, it may point to a lapse in judgment or concentration. Investigators will likely seek to determine if the pedestrian was walking in a restricted area and whether the driver could have taken steps to avoid the crash.
What Evidence Can Help Identify the Truck and Driver?
Since the truck left the scene, investigators will rely on a range of evidence to track it down. Surveillance footage from nearby highway cameras or businesses along I-75 may have captured the truck’s identifying details. Debris from the impact site could also help link the vehicle to the crash. In many cases, data from toll systems, weigh stations, or license plate readers can assist in narrowing down potential matches. Witness statements describing the truck’s markings or logos may also prove crucial.
Why a Thorough Investigation Is Critical
When someone loses their life and the vehicle involved drives away, it’s essential that investigators uncover exactly what happened and who was responsible. A thorough investigation helps law enforcement identify the driver and determine what factors led to the crash and why.