One motorcyclist died and another was critically injured Saturday in an accident in Tampa involving both riders colliding with a van.
According to Florida Highway Patrol troopers, the accident happened just after 4 p.m. at North Florida Avenue and Palm Drive. Two bikers, one 19 and the other 20, were riding southbound on North Florida Avenue when a van driven by by a 69-year-old man pulled into the road from Palm Drive into the motorcycle’s path.
The man reportedly failed to see the bikers as he pulled into the roadway to make a left turn onto North Florida Avenue. The bikers were both traveling in the left lane at high rates of speed, and both struck the van, according to reports.
The 19-year-old suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene. The 20-year-old suffered serious injuries and was transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital. Both riders were wearing helmets at the time of the crash.
The driver of the van was transported to Florida Hospital Fletcher and treated for minor injuries.
Charges in the case are pending the results of the investigation.
If you were involved in a motorcycle accident with a passenger vehicle, you stand little chance of escaping the accident without any injuries. Bikers that are clipped by larger vehicles are much more susceptible to bodily injuries and even death due to their direct exposure to contact and lack of protection.
The most common injuries resulting from motorcycle accidents include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Broken Bones & Fractures
- Road Rash
- Catastrophic Spine & Neck Injuries
- Wrongful Death
If you have been involved in a motorcycle crash in Tampa Bay, it is important to consult with an experienced Tampa Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Whittel & Melton to help determine liability. We can examine police reports, talk to any witnesses and utilize experts in accident reconstruction to figure out who was at fault. In some cases, another driver may have been distracted or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
We can look out for your best interests, so call us today for a free consultation – 727-823-0000 or contact us online.