One Killed, One Critically Injured in Lake County Motorcycle Crash

A 27-year-old Orlando man died and a 33-year-old Eustis woman was critically injured earlier this month in east Lake County after their motorcycle collided with a culvert and both passengers were ejected, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The accident occurred around 7:30 p.m. near the intersection of Royal Trails Road and West Thyme Avenue, near Lake Tracy. The FHP claims the 27-year-old man was headed south on Royal Trails Road, riding a 2003 Suzuki, when he lost control of the bike, exited the roadway and struck the culvert.

The collision caused the motorcycle to become airborne, ejecting the man and his 33-year-old female passenger. The FHP said neither were wearing helmets.

The man was taken to Ocala Regional Hospital, where he later died. The woman was transported to Halifax Medical Center in critical condition.

The FHP is still investigating the cause of the crash. They are conducting tests to determine if alcohol was a factor.

Motorcycles are more prone to accidents caused by poor roadway maintenance or construction than passenger vehicles are. Poorly drained roadways, clogged culverts, potholes, steep shoulders and other roadway defects are much more dangerous to motorcyclists than to other vehicle drivers and occupants. A biker or passenger injured by a road defect may be able to bring an injury or wrongful death claim against the city, town, county or possibly even the State that owned and maintained the roadway.

Motorcycle injuries are usually more severe than car accident injuries just because a biker lacks the protection that a car offers to drivers and passengers. Paralysis, serious scarring, concussions and traumatic brain injuries, amputations, extreme disfigurement, spinal cord injuries, bone fractures and even death, are all too common in motorcycle accidents.

If you or someone you love has been the victim of a motorcycle accident in Lake, Marion or Sumter County, a Villages Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Whittel & Melton may be able to help you pursue financial compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Contact us today at 352-369-5334 or online to schedule a free consultation to learn more about your legal rights and what compensation you may be entitled to.