Construction worker fatally struck by alleged drunk driver on I-75

RUSKIN, FL – An alleged drunk driver is under arrest after police say he struck and killed a man in Hillsborough County Friday morning, according to WTSP.

The accident happened in a construction zone in the northbound lanes of I-75 near Ruskin, not far from the Manatee County line.  Authorities say 29-year Michael Jerome Forbes Jr. was driving in an area where lanes were closed to traffic at about 4 a.m, and hit a construction worker.  The worker, a 45-year-old man from Tampa, died at the scene.

Forbes kept driving for about a quarter mile, stopped in a median and then ran off into nearby woods, according to investigators.

Forbes, of Seffner, was apprehended following a search of the area. Troopers said he had a blood alcohol content of 0.151.

He now faces several charges, including DUI manslaughter and vehicular homicide.

Driving under the influence is a reckless choice that puts others at risk. If you were injured or lost a loved one due to a drunk driver, you deserve justice and fair compensation. Our team of Hillsborough County Car Accident Lawyers at Kemp, Ruge and Green Law Group have the experience and knowledge to fight on your behalf. Call us today at 727-325-5512 to schedule a free consultation and find out how we can help.