Florida Personal Injury Lawyers Blog
SPRING HILL, FL – A suspected drunk driver has been arrested in connection with a fatal hit-and-run crash in Hernando County.
According to Pasco News Online, the suspect was identified as 38-year-old Reinier Casola Rodriguez of Tampa. The Florida Highway Patrol said he was driving a Ford F-150 northbound on Mariner Boulevard at a high rate of speed on Oct. 18 at about 7 p.m. When he failed to negotiate a curve near Quality Drive and entered the center median, a man riding in the front seat who was not wearing a seat belt fell out of the pickup truck.
The truck continued traveling to the west shoulder before hitting a utility box. The passenger, a 34-year-old man from West Palm Beach, was pronounced dead after being taken to an area hospital. Two other men riding in the pickup, ages 47 and 29, suffered minor injuries.
Investigators said Casola Rodriguez fled the scene on foot before being apprehended about a mile away by Hernando Sheriff’s deputies. He is now facing multiple charges, including DUI manslaughter and leaving the scene of a crash involving death.
The FHP said Casola Rodriguez was taken to jail after refusing to provide a breath test or blood sample.
If you or a loved one were the victim of a car accident due to someone driving under the influence, you may be entitled to financial compensation under the laws of the state of Florida. The Hernando County Car Accident Lawyers at Whittel & Melton can evaluate your case and fight to obtain the money and justice you deserve after an unfortunate crash. To schedule a free initial consultation, contact us online or by phone at 866-608-5529.