Florida teen injured after Lake County motorcycle accident
A 14-year-old Florida boy has been hospitalized after being struck by a motorcycle as he attempted to cross a county road. Troopers with the Florida Highway Patrol say the motorcycle accident happened at about 8 a.m. in Lake County. They say the victim crossed the road to speak to some friends, returning after a brief conversation. The teenager reportedly waited for a car to pass before running back across the road, at which time he was hit by the motorcycle.
Upon arrival at the crash site, rescue workers transported the teenager to a hospital via helicopter. He remains there and was in critical condition at last report. The 53-year-old motorcyclist who struck the boy also sustained serious injuries. Police say the motorcyclist was not wearing a protective helmet at the time of the accident.
One man who lives near the site of the accident and is acquainted with the victim says he heard the collision occur, describing it as hearing "a thud."
FHP investigators say the motorcyclist could have been traveling toward Daytona Beach for Bike Week when he struck the victim, but have not yet determined whether this is the case. Police said Bike Week resulted in a large increase in motorcycle traffic on the day of the accident, as motorcycle enthusiasts made their way to the large celebration, held about 50 miles northeast of Orlando.
Classmates of the victim were distressed upon hearing news of the accident during their school's morning announcements.
Depending on the results of the police investigation, there could be lawsuits filed by multiple parties. If it's determined that the child was in the wrong, the motorcyclist could have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. The boy's family could return the favor if they believe the driver was at fault.
Source: WFTV.com, "Motorcyclist, teen airlifted to hospital after accident," March 9, 2012