Deadly collision happened along State Highway 46 near St. Matthews Church Road, GSP says
September 11, 2024 | Candler, GA
A senior couple from Metter was killed in a crash involving a wrong-way driver Wednesday afternoon in Candler County, according to the Georgia State Patrol.
It happened on State Highway 46, less than a quarter mile east of its intersection with St. Matthews Church Road.
Metter residents Bobby R. Rigdon and Lynette Rigdon were fatally injured after their car was struck by a driver traveling the wrong way on State Highway 46 in Candler County, the State Patrol said.
Based on preliminary information, a white 2016 Chevrolet Silverado pickup was traveling westbound in the eastbound lane around 4:10 p.m. when the driver crashed into a white 2011 Chevrolet Impala sedan, which was going east. It was not immediately known why the Silverado was traveling in the wrong direction.
The Impala's driver, Bobby R. Rigdon, 84, and his passenger, Lynette Rigdon, 79, both from Metter, died from injuries.
Officials said the driver of the Silverado was taken to the hospital with injuries.
This is an active investigation.
CRASH INVESTIGATION NEEDED
NTSB statistics reveal that as many as 75 percent of all wrong-way crashes are the result of a driver getting behind the wheel while under the influence.
“Road conditions, visibility, and lighting are all possible contributing factors that are considered and must thoroughly be examined,” said Candice Bond, an experienced auto accident attorney and a Managing Partner with Bond Legal.
“An accident reconstruction team is sometimes needed to help piece together what happened. All of these resources are necessary for helping clients receive monetary compensation for damages or a loss following a collision,” said Bond.
WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM
Pending the investigation, the family members of the Rigdons may be entitled to a wrongful death claim. Family members of wrongful death victims may seek damages for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a catastrophic accident such as this.
“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal.
“We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.”
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