A bicyclist sustained serious injuries in a hit-and-run accident on N. Lockwood Ridge Road in Sarasota on the evening of Tuesday, March 15.
According to representatives from the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, the accident occurred at approximately 10 p.m. that evening. At that time, a light-colored vehicle heading north on Lockwood Ridge Road near Monica Parkway struck a cyclist then fled the scene without stopping.
The cyclist was riding in the bike lane at the time of the collision. They were transported to Sarasota Memorial Hospital and listed as being in critical condition.
Deputies sought the assistance of the public in finding the vehicle and perpetrator. The vehicle was believed to have front-end damage, and anyone with information was requested to call the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office.
Hit-and-run accidents are a criminal offense
All parties are expected, under the law, to remain at the scene of an accident after a collision. Leaving the scene of an accident is a misdemeanor offense punishable by fines, potential license suspension and possible jail time.
When the accident involves an injury or fatality, the offense becomes even more serious in the eyes of the law. In such a case, leaving the scene of the accident constitutes a felony offense, which could be punished by significant fines and jail time, in addition to license revocation.
If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident caused by a driver who then fled the scene, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez & Walsh in Bradenton, FL to learn more about your legal options.