A 14-year-old student died after he was hit by a car Tuesday, December 8, 2009, while he was walking near Old Dixie Hwy and Taylor Rd South in Lakeland, FL.
The victim, identified as Colton Meyers, was a student at Tenoroc High School, according to ABC action News.
Myers was taken by medical helicopter to Tampa General Hospital in Tampa, FL in critical condition and was later pronounced dead.
According to Polk County investigators, the driver of a Nissan involved in the accident was traveling south on Old Dixie Highway in Lakeland, FL.
The driver attempted to pass another vehicle in front of him and his car struck Meyers, who was crossing Old Dixie road in Lakeland, FL.
Any person who operates a motor vehicle and is involved in an accident is required by law to stop in a safe place, provide information to the owner of whatever property may have been damaged (car, property, person, etc.), and render aid to anyone who was injured if necessary. Those who cause property damage and are unable to identify or contact the property's owner are legally required to leave a note with contact information and file an accident report with the police. Failure to do these things constitutes a hit and run, according to Florida State Laws.
When a suspect is charged and convicted of a hit and run, sentencing usually takes into account:
• The nature of the accident
• The extent of damage
• Personal injuries
• Cooperation with law enforcement
• Criminal record
Rivas Law Group, L.L.C. is a personal injury law firm located in Winter Haven, FL. Attorney Tania L. Rivas is dedicated to meeting the legal needs of Polk County, FL and representing injured victims.
