John Figgie, age 78, of Massachusetts, was arrested in connection with an alleged hit-and-run crash in Manatee County on Thursday, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
The incident occurred on U.S. Highway 41, north of Seagate Drive. Figgie’s SUV drifted into the bicycle lane and struck a 78-year-old man, who was critically injured and transported to the hospital.
Figgie fled the scene and continued driving north on the highway.
Shortly after, Figgie’s vehicle was involved in another collision about a half-mile away, which caused disabling damage to the SUV. No injuries were reported in the second incident.
Figgie was arrested for leaving the scene of a crash involving serious injury and was booked into jail.
The Florida Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the case.
John Figgie arrested in Manatee County hit-and-run accident
Incident Location
HIT-AND-RUN INVESTIGATION NEEDED
Leaving the scene of an accident is a crime, but sadly statistics indicate that approximately 11 percent of all crashes involve a hit-and-run driver.
In most cases involving hit-and-runs, the at-fault drivers feel they can avoid the consequences of their actions if they leave the scene. However, a suspect will be charged when apprehended.
Candice Bond, an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney, said in such cases, it is imperative to have an independent investigation conducted by a seasoned attorney promptly to protect the rights of a victim.
“Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a hit-and-run accident case and prove negligence,” said Bond, a Managing Partner of Bond Legal. “Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that must be fully considered. These procedures are necessary for helping someone who has been injured by a hit-and-run driver receive the justice and monetary compensation that they deserve.”
PERSONAL INJURY CLAIM
The victim may have the right to pursue a personal injury claim, pending the investigation.
Bond added, “Injured victims involved in a collision often seek a personal injury claim to cover the cost of medical bills, future medical care, loss of income, emotional trauma, and pain and suffering.
“Insurance companies can be notoriously unconcerned with the mounting costs that an injured party may accrue. That’s where an attorney can help. We protect the victims of these tragedies daily, forcing the insurance companies to pay for their mistakes,” she said.
Have you been in a similar accident and need help? Speak to Accident Injury News's national legal analyst Candice Bond now free of charge for a no-obligation consultation
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Accident Injury News can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-986-7738 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).
