Motorcycle Accident

December 23, 2019

Report Released on Thanksgiving Crash that Left Motorcyclist in Beverly Hills with Life-Threatening Injuries

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

Information was released Friday about a Thanksgiving crash at the entrance of a Beverly Hills community that left a Citrus Springs motorcyclist with life-threatening injuries.

According to a Citrus County Sheriff’s Office crash report, a 20-year-old male was riding a black Honda motorcycle in the inside, southbound lane of County Road 491, approaching the intersection with West Black Diamond Circle at 6:53 p.m. on Nov. 28.

At the same time, a 49-year-old man was driving a gray Nissan Rogue on Black Diamond Circle and was stopped at the intersection with C.R. 491.

The driver of the Nissan told the investigating sheriff’s office deputy he didn’t see the motorcyclist as he tried to cut across to northbound lanes of C.R. 491, the report shows.

Another witness who was driving south on C.R. 491 told deputies they saw the driver of the Nissan stopped at the intersection and pull out into southbound lanes as the motorcyclist sped passed them at roughly 60 mph in the 40 mph speed zone, according to the crash report.

The man’s motorcycle then struck the back-left side of the other driver’s SUV, which then spun around into the median. The biker was thrown from the motorcycle and landed in the road. Emergency responders flew the biker for treatment of incapacitating injuries, the report shows.

The driver of the Nissan and one of his two passengers were uninjured; the second passenger suffered a minor injury to their arm but was not hospitalized.

No citations were listed in the sheriff’s crash report.

Experiencing a motorcycle accident of any kind certainly warrants the legal support of our Citrus County Motorcycle Injury Lawyers at Whittel & Melton. A motorcycle accident tends to be more deadly than an accident involving a passenger car. When the aftermath of a car vs. motorcycle accident is not fatal, injuries are often severe and may permanently alter the victim’s life.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, you may have legal options. The best choice you could make immediately following the crash is to consult our motorcycle injury attorneys in Citrus County. At Whittel & Melton, we understand that motorcycles offer very little protection from a forceful impact when involved in an accident. Bikers are often thrown ejected from the bike resulting in life-threatening injuries, as this case shows. The unfortunate truth is that the motorcyclists is not typically not to blame. In Florida, there are laws to protect victims of motorcycle accidents. By learning about your rights and legal options now, it may be possible to secure financial compensation that protects your future.

The reality is that motorcycle drivers and passengers face a very high risk of being seriously harmed in the event of a collision. Our Citrus County Motorcycle Injury Attorneys have handled a large number of injury cases involving:

Traumatic brain injuries
Head injuries
Severe facial wounds
Loss of limb
Severe road rash
Lacerations
Collapsed lung
Bruising
Internal bleeding
Burns
Broken bones
Torn muscles and ligaments
Wrongful death

Regardless of whether you have suffered from a moderate to serious or life threatening injuries, our Citrus County Motorcycle Accident Attorneys at Whittel & Melton would like to discuss the possibility of recovering compensation for:

Medical bills
Future medical care
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Loss of consortium
Punitive damages
Funeral costs

A motorcycle accident can happen anytime of the day, anywhere, and for a majority of different reasons. Reports indicate that approximately 56% of motorcycle accidents occur on major, non-interstate roads. Another 30% occur on small roads, and the remaining 14% on freeways and interstates. We have helped motorcycle injury victims recover for accidents that were a result of:

Distracted driving
Failing to yield or stop
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Road defects
Changing lanes
Pulling out without looking

Most motorcycle accident cases involve a driver of a passenger vehicle who has failed to see the biker or safely share the road with them. Sadly, the consequences can be devastating.

January 15, 2019

One Killed, One Seriously Injured in Citrus County Motorcycle Crash

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

A 19-year-old was killed in a motorcycle accident early Sunday morning in Citrus County.

The crash occurred shortly after midnight at E. Gulf to Lake Highway and S. Lois Terrace.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, a Mercury Marquis traveling westbound on E. Gulf to Lake Highway attempted to turn left at S. Lois Terrace and entered the path of a motorcycle.

The motorcycle ended up colliding with the right rear side of the Mercury, causing fatal injuries to the motorcyclist.

Troopers said the 19-year-old died at the scene.

The driver of the Mercury was not injured in the crash, however the passenger was seriously injured and transported to Ocala Regional Hospital.

The crash, which is still under investigation, caused the road to be shut down until 3:40 a.m.

According to the report, charges are pending.

Motorcyclists lack the same protections as a passenger vehicle, so they are exposed to the elements. When they are thrown from their bikes or pinned in a crash, it is common for them to suffer catastrophic injuries, such as:

Serious fractures
Head injuries that cause brain damage
Back and spinal cord injuries
Amputations
Serious burns and road rash
Facial disfigurement
Internal injuries
Wrongful death

If someone you love has been killed in a motorcycle accident, you should contact our Citrus County Motorcycle Death Attorneys at Whittel & Melton to determine whether a wrongful death action can be taken against the negligent driver.

September 6, 2018

Woman Killed in Crystal River Motorcycle Crash

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

A 22-year-old woman from Crystal River was killed in an early-morning motorcycle crash Tuesday.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the woman died in a crash on West Fort Island Trail in Citrus County.

Troopers said the woman was a passenger on a 2012 Yamaha motorcycle just after midnight when the driver failed to negotiate a sharp curve, went off the road and collided with a tree.

The 30-year-old Homosassa man driving the motorcycle suffered critical injuries and remains at Bayonet Point Hospital.

The woman died at the scene.

Troopers said neither the woman nor the driver were wearing a helmet.

One in every five motorcycle crashes reported results in head or neck injuries. Head injuries are just as severe as neck injuries and are actually a lot more common. Research shows that wearing a helmet reduces the risk of neck or head injury. You are three times more likely to suffer an injury or death than those wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

Florida laws are more lenient when it comes to helmet rules. A person over 21 may operate or ride upon a motorcycle without wearing a helmet if they are covered by an insurance policy providing for at least $10,000 in medical benefits for injuries incurred as a result of a crash while operating or riding on a motorcycle.

July 9, 2018

Two Motorcyclists Killed in Citrus County

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

Two motorcyclists were killed recently in Citrus County.

The first crash involved a 50-year-old motorcyclist who was killed in a single-vehicle crash that occurred in the early morning hours of June 28 at SR 44 and S. Kensington Avenue.

Troopers said the man was traveling eastbound on SR 44 when, for an unknown reason, the motorcycle departed the roadway and overturned.

The man suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead on scene.

A passing FHP trooper on patrol discovered the crash around 7 a.m.

Another motorcycle crash occurred around 10 a.m. on Thursday, June 28 in Citrus County.

A 26-year-old male was killed after crashing into a fence at Crystal River Middle School.

Troopers said the man was driving a Harley Davidson motorcycle on 4th Avenue approaching the intersection of NE Crystal Street when he failed to stop at the intersection and continued into the property of Crystal River Middle School.

The man collided with an iron fence, and suffered fatal injuries.

Even when motorcycle riders exercise precautions while riding, injuries and wrongful death can still happen because of someone else’s negligence. Because of that, it is always important to remember these two safety tips when riding:

Wear a Helmet: Traumatic Brain Injuries are the number one cause of Motorcycle Accident Injuries. Wearing a properly fitting helmet may be the difference between injury or death.
Wear the Right Gear: You must keep your skin protected when riding a motorcycle. In the unfortunate event that you are thrown from the bike and skid across the pavement, severe skin damage and road rash can still occur even if you are wearing appropriate clothing.

November 9, 2017

Two Killed in Motorcycle Accident in Lecanto

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

Two people were killed Tuesday night in a motorcycle crash in Lecanto.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, a 48-year-old man and a 29-year-old woman were killed when their 2008 Kawasaki motorcycle collided with a Chevrolet S10.

The crash happened on Homosassa Trail near West Granton Lane just before 7 p.m.

Troopers said a 72-year-old Lecanto woman was driving the Chevrolet northbound on Homosassa Trail and attempted a left turn onto Granton Lane as the Kawasaki was traveling southbound on Homosassa Trail.

The Chevy and motorcycle collided, ejecting the pair on the motorcycle. They both died at the scene.

The crash remains under investigation.

Motorcycle crashes usually result in very serious injuries, and sometimes death, to the driver and any passengers. These crashes usually happen because of a negligent car driver who was not aware a biker was on the roadway. In most motorcycle crash accidents, car drivers are distracted, inattentive, or careless behind the wheel and fail to take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe roadway for motorcyclists.

A car provides some sort of protection against injury in the event of a crash, whereas motorcyclists do not share this luxury of protection. Because of this, the worst injuries are usually suffered by the motorcyclist and any passengers.

September 19, 2017

Motorcyclist Killed After Bike Overturns, Struck By Vehicle

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

A motorcyclist was killed Sunday night in Citrus County after troopers said the motorcycle overturned and was hit by an oncoming vehicle.

The crash occurred around 8 p.m. at US 19 and West Bentbow Path.

The 47-year-old was traveling southbound on US 19 on his bike, when for an unknown reason, he stopped in the roadway and the motorcycle fell over on his leg. Troopers said a GMC Acadia traveling behind the man was unable to avoid the overturned motorcycle and collided with him.

The man suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the Acadia and his passenger did not receive any injuries.

According to the report, charges are pending.

As motorcycle riders share the roads with other motorists, collisions and wrecks are all too common. In many cases, the motorcyclist is not at fault and the other driver is liable for the crash and the biker’s injuries.

Our Citrus County Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Whittel & Melton handle personal injury claims and wrongful death lawsuits on behalf of injured bikers and their families. We can help you aggressively pursue financial compensation for injuries suffered in motorcycle accidents caused by another driver’s carelessness.

May 10, 2017

Motorcyclist Killed in Citrus County Crash

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

A 63-year-old motorcyclist was killed in a vehicle wreck Saturday night in Citrus County.

The crash occurred around 10:30 p.m. at N Citrus Avenue and W Emerald Oaks Boulevard.

Troopers believe another man driving a GMC Terrain was traveling eastbound on West Emerald Blvd. and traveled across the intersection and into the southbound lanes, in the path of a motorcycle.

The motorcyclist was transported to a local hospital where he passed away.

The crash remains under investigation and charges are pending, according to the report.

Motorcycle riders have the same rights to the road as other vehicles. Other drivers do not always recognize that fact, though. All bikers are at the mercy of other motorists, so when they fail to share the road or keep an eye out for bikers, serious injuries and even wrongful death occur. When accidents happen, insurance companies are quick to blame the motorcyclist simply because riding a bike has risks. This unfair thinking is why you need a Citrus County Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Whittel & Melton working on your side to make sure you are fully compensated for your injuries. We also help surviving family members recover compensation for their loved one’s wrongful death.

May 3, 2017

Citrus County Motorcyclists: May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, and this is a great time for all drivers to be reminded of safe driving practices on the roadway.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcycle deaths occur 27 times more frequently than fatalities in other motor vehicles. Motorcycle accidents usually occur because other drivers are distracted and not paying attention to the number one task of driving. Taking your eyes off the road, even if for just a few seconds, can prove deadly.

Our Citrus County Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Whittel & melton urge drivers to refrain from any distracted driving behaviors. Please do not answer your phone or look at a text while driving. If you must take a call or text, pull over to a safe area off the side of the road and park first. Even a glance may take your eyes off the road for the second it takes to miss seeing a motorcycle.

It is equally important to highlight that motorcyclists have the same rights as any other vehicle. Just understand that because they are smaller, you may not be able to see them right away, so train yourself to keep an eye out for them. Always look twice before pulling out or making a turn.

Moreover, pay attention to your blind spots and always double check your side view mirror before changing lanes. Use your turn signal and turn your head to look before changing lanes. Motorcyclists should not be driving in a car’s blind spot, but taking a second look may save a life.

Motorcyclists also need to drive defensively and follow safety rules. They must obey all traffic laws.

Here is a list of tips for all motorcyclists to be reminded of:

Wear brightly colored clothing and reflective tape
Wear a DOT-compliant helmet and protective gear
Obey all traffic laws, including the posted speed limit
Use hand and turn signals
Never ride distracted or impaired

March 15, 2017

Motorcyclist Killed in Collision with Deer in Citrus County

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

A 24-year-old man was killed Sunday evening when his motorcycle collided with a deer on a Citrus County road.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the Chiefland man was riding his 2003 Harley-Davidson motorcycle northbound at 7 p.m. on US Highway 19 just before West Bentbow Path, when a deer jumped into his path.

The motorcycle collided with the deer and overturned, troopers said.

The man, who troopers said was not wearing a helmet, was transported to Seven Rivers Regional Medical Center, where he later died.

Deer that jump out into the road can cause all sorts of collisions, including motorcycle crashes. Bikers and motorists alike should abide by the following safety tips when travelling through areas known to have wildlife:

Always drive with caution, especially at dusk and dawn when deer activity is high.
Reduce speed in wooded areas and fields.
If you see a deer, know that there are likely more in the area, so keep an eye out.
Avoid swerving, whenever possible.

Victims of deer accidents are often barred from recovery under Florida law. That said, an immediate consult with a qualified and experienced Personal Injury lawyer is invaluable to investigate all angles of recovery.

March 7, 2017

Inverness Man Killed In Motorcycle Crash

by Whittel & Melton, LLC

A 26-year-old Inverness man was killed early Monday in a motorcycle crash.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the biker was killed just before 2 a.m. in a crash on West Fort Island Trail in Crystal River.

Troopers said the man was traveling westbound on his 2015 Yamaha motorcycle when he failed to negotiate a left curve in the roadway. The motorcycle traveled onto the grass shoulder and collided with a tree.

Authorities did confirm the man was wearing a helmet. He died at the scene.

Riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating, giving you a huge sense of freedom. They can also be very dangerous, often resulting in serious injuries and even death. The lack of protection motorcycles offer to riders leaves drivers exposed to their surroundings, so serious injuries from motorcycle accidents are a common occurrence.

There are many causes of motorcycle accidents, including negligent driving, traffic violations, speeding, and distracted driving. There are other factors that may be out of a driver’s control, such as wet roads, inclement weather, vehicle failures, and roadway defects.