A man was killed in a recent accident at the intersection of Florida Boulevard and U.S. Highway 41 in Manatee County.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the accident occurred at approximately 10:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 25. A man driving a 2002 Pontiac Grand Am was attempting to make an illegal right turn from the middle lane of U.S. 41 to get onto Florida Boulevard. Police say that as he tried making this turn, the vehicle slammed into a 2005 Suzuki motorcycle carrying two people. Both vehicles left the roadway upon impact.
The 21-year-old male rider of the motorcycle was killed in the crash. The passenger suffered serious injuries and was transported to nearby Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Authorities continue to investigate.
Drivers who disobey the rules of the road are liable for their actions
All drivers must operate their vehicles in a reasonably safe manner, abiding by all the rules of the road. In a personal injury claim, a plaintiff may prove a driver was liable for his or her injuries by demonstrating that the driver broke one of the rules of the road, and that this breach of safety directly caused their accident and the resulting injuries.
In this specific incident, it appears the driver attempted to make an illegal turn from a center lane, which would likely make him responsible for the injuries and death stemming from the crash.
To learn more about proving liability after a car accident, work with a dedicated Florida personal injury attorney at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh.