Collision with Pedestrian on I-4

A pedestrian died after being struck by a vehicle on Interstate-4 in Lakeland near U.S. 92.  This accident happened at approximately 1:40 a.m. Melissa Grace Triplett was walking along I-4.  She was struck by Anthony Gayle, who was driving west in the outside lane of travel.  This accident is still under investigation.

There are a lot of unanswered questions that would help shed light on why this accident happened.  First and foremost, it is unclear whether the pedestrian was struck in the lane of travel itself or was struck while walking on the shoulder.  This fact is critical to determining what degree, if any, each of the persons involved may have some fault for the accident.  In other words, if the pedestrian was on the shoulder and not in the lane of travel, then the driver of the car needs a very good explanation of why his car left the roadway.  On the other hand, if the pedestrian is in the lane of travel, then she needs a reason to be in the roadway.  While the driver appears to have stated that he did not see her before the accident, placing the impact in the lane or on the shoulder makes a critical difference in whether charges are proper.  It is unlikely that the driver would ever say that he saw because then he would be facing vehicular manslaughter or murder charges.  Quite frankly, I believe the driver when he says that he did not see her as it was night time and you do not necessarily expect pedestrians on an interstate highway.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, please contact a Central Florida personal injury or wrongful death attorney for a free consultation.