The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration ordered Florida long-haul driver James H. Patterson not to operate any commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce, declaring him an imminent hazard to public safety. Patterson was involved in an accident in November that killed the driver of a passenger vehicle. 

On Nov. 13, Patterson was driving through Rockingham County, Va., when he crossed the center lane and struck a passenger vehicle, killing the driver, Connie Stever, 54, of Mathias, W.Va. According to published reports, police say Patterson's tractor-trailer flipped on top of Stever's vehicle.

State law enforcement charged him with involuntary manslaughter for driving while suspended and in possession of a controlled substance (prescription pills), and driving after being declared a habitual offender.

Patterson was also found to be using a cell phone while driving, speeding and in violation of federal hours of service regulations.The FMCSA order will prevent Patterson from participating in interstate commerce driving.

Tuesday, according to published reports, a judge denied Patterson's appeal to receive bond.

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