Responders from the Florida Highway Patrol were called to the scene of an accident January 2 in the northbound lanes of 14th Street West, close to 58th Avenue in Bradenton.
According to witnesses, a woman riding a motorcycle was hit by the driver of a Ford F-150 pickup truck. The truck’s driver was leaving the parking lot of a Winn-Dixie store and crossed three lanes of traffic. He then hit the motorcycle, which was stationary in the center northbound lane of 14th Street. Footage captured from cameras at a nearby motorcycle repair shop showed the truck running into the motorcycle. The rider had just left the shop, where repairs had been done to her bike.
When emergency personnel arrived, the woman appeared to be responsive. She was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital for emergency treatment. The driver of the truck was allowed to leave after an initial investigation.
Motorcycles not always easy to see
Many motorcycle accidents happen because other drivers simply are not paying attention to their surroundings, causing them to miss these smaller vehicles on the road. Still, it is the responsibility of all motorists to pay careful attention to their surroundings. In a state like Florida, which has warm weather all year, motorcycles are common enough that drivers should make it a habit to consider them before making turns or changing lanes.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by a negligent driver, you may be able to seek compensation. For further guidance, consult an experienced Bradenton, Florida personal injury attorney with Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh.