Land O’ Lakes Motorcyclist Killed in Collision with SUV in Wesley Chapel

A Ford Explorer making a U-turn Saturday night in Wesley Chapel struck and killed a 22-year-old Land O’ Lakes motorcyclist.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the incident occurred just before 11 p.m. The SUV was heading east when it turned to make a U-turn and collided with a motorcycle traveling west.

The motorcycle apparently struck the right front side of the SUV, killing the man on impact.

The SUV’s driver, a 20-year-old Montana resident, was not harmed. She was carrying one passenger, a 21-year-old of Defuniak Springs, who also suffered no injuries.

Troopers do not believe alcohol was a factor in the crash. The two women were wearing seat belts and the motorcyclist was wearing a helmet.

FHP is still investigating the accident.

Other driver negligence is often a contributing factor in many motorcycle-related accidents in Pasco County. When a driver fails to exercise responsible or reasonable care and causes an unfortunate accident, they may be considered negligent. Negligence can embody many driving behaviors, including the following:

• Using Excessive Speeds
• Driving Under the Influence of Drugs, Alcohol, or Prescription Pills
• Making Illegal U-Turns
• Distracted Driving
• Tailgating
• Ignoring Traffic Signals

Motorcycles are much smaller than larger vehicles like SUVs, which can make them harder to spot. This means motorists must pay extra attention to ensure the safety of motorcycle riders sharing the roadway. Bikers have a right to be on the same road as other cars, SUVs and trucks. Unfortunately, the fact that they are smaller than most vehicles means that when they are involved in accidents with cars, trucks or SUVS, they generally incur extensive amounts of damage compared to other vehicles involved. Additionally, riders often suffer much more severe injuries compared to other drivers and passengers involved in an accident. Common motorcycle accident injuries include broken bones, spinal cord and neck injuries, traumatic brain injuries and even death.

A large number of Pasco County motorcycle accidents take place at intersections. Drivers turning often forget to check their blind spot and strike an unsuspecting motorcyclist. Motorcycle accidents can cause life-changing injuries to riders, and sadly, many bikers die every year due to the negligence of other motorists. If you or someone you know has been the victim of a motorcycle accident in Wesley Chapel, Dade City, Zephyrhills, Land O’Lakes, Hudson, Holiday, Lutz, Trinity or New Port Richey, contact the Pasco County Motorcycle Accident Attorneys today online or call 727-847-2299.