Thursday, September 12, 2024
A 63-year old woman from Georgia was killed in a hit-and-run collision while getting out of her parked vehicle on the Trout River Bridge shoulder along I-95 early Thursday morning, September 12.
Vehicle Description
The hit-and-run occurred just after midnight, adding to the long list of pedestrian hit-and-run fatalities that happen during dawn, dusk, or nighttime conditions.
But authorities do have a description of the vehicle. State troopers described the suspect's car as possibly a black or dark-colored 2016-2019 Ford Explorer with right front bumper damage. The Ford also has a damaged outside passenger side view mirror and a missing reflective mirror and forward-facing plastic mirror cover.
Anyone with information can call the FHP at (904) 301-3700 or *FHP, or the First Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS.
But authorities do have a description of the vehicle. State troopers described the suspect's car as possibly a black or dark-colored 2016-2019 Ford Explorer with right front bumper damage. The Ford also has a damaged outside passenger side view mirror and a missing reflective mirror and forward-facing plastic mirror cover.
Anyone with information can call the FHP at (904) 301-3700 or *FHP, or the First Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS.
Highway Shoulder Safety
- Right Shoulder
If you have to pull over immediately, pull over on the right shoulder, not the left. The right shoulder is safer for a few reasons. First, it's state law. Second, it's adjacent to the slowest lane, making re-entry safer and easier.
- Next Exit
If possible, get off the nearest exit and then pull over on a less-busy road, into a gas station, or into a parking lot if you can make it that far.
- Turn Signal
Use your turn signal when pulling over. Drivers usually aren't anticipating your actions, let alone issues with your vehicle. So you need to make sure they know your intentions.
- Easy on the Breaks
Don't just slam on the breaks. You'll cause an accident. After you use your turn signal, gently pull your foot off the accelerator to gradually slow down. Then safely merge into the right lane and then onto the right shoulder.
- Hazards
Watch out for hazards along the shoulder, like chunks of tires or broken glass. As you begin to move out of the right lane, scan the shoulder for anything that could cause further harm to your vehicle.
- Outside the Vehicle
Before you even think about opening the door, make sure there are no other vehicles approaching. When it's safe, exit the vehicle and go to the other side away from traffic.
If you have been injured in a hit-and-run, there are still pathways to compensation. Call our Jacksonville car accident lawyers at Wilkes & Mee, and we will work quickly to help you through the process, from finding medical treatment to investigating the accident to dealing with the insurance company.