Two Villages residents were recently injured in separate accidents in which their bikes were struck by cars. In both cases, the drivers involved in the crashes did not stick around to see if the bike riders were OK.
“It’s a dog eat dog world out there,” Villages resident Ken Nevers told Villages-News after a crash on Hillsborough Trail in which he was thrown from his bicycle. The 61-year-old, who was wearing a helmet at the time, suffered a broken rib and separated shoulder, among other injuries.
Local police are still looking for the driver of the silver 2003 Jaguar that struck the back tire of Nevers’ bicycle and then fled the scene of the crash. Nevers told Villages-News that the driver may have been texting behind the wheel.
“The driver accelerated and mowed me down,” Nevers said.
Meanwhile, Village of Dunedin resident Jessica Laube was seriously injured in a separate hit and run accident on Morse Boulevard. Laube, who was also wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, reportedly suffered brain trauma and was taken to Ocala Regional Medical Center.
Police are still looking for the driver of a white Mercedes that collided with Laube’s bike. They said the car likely has damage to the front right side and windshield.
Legal Rights for People Injured in Bicycle Accidents
The tragic accidents are the latest examples of the serious injuries that can happen when a car collides with a bike. Anyone who has been injured in such an accident has the right to seek compensation from those responsible. A seasoned Villages injury attorney can help.
Florida law imposes a duty of care on car drivers, which generally requires them to operate their vehicles in a reasonably safe manner. That means complying with traffic laws, staying alert behind the wheel, and refraining from dangerous activities like drinking or texting and driving.
A driver who does not live up to this responsibility is likely to be found negligent and liable for any accidents that happen as a result. A driver who flees the scene of an accident is also looking at criminal charges.
Speak with a Villages Injury Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit and run or other accident in Florida, it is important to have an experienced personal injury attorney in your corner. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and explore your options to seek compensation for your injuries.
Tim Babiarz is a Villages accident attorney who has been fighting for people injured in crashes for more than two decades. He is a tenacious litigator who is committed to helping people get the full compensation available under the law.
Our office is conveniently located in the Villages. We are also proud to represent clients throughout the area, including in Ocala, Leesburg, Lady Lake, Wildwood, Summerfield, and beyond. Call (352) 205-7559 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with a Villages accident attorney.
