Jupiter Man Struck and Killed in Motorcycle Accident

A 45-year-old Jupiter man was killed recently in an early morning motorcycle accident after a pickup truck pulled out in front of him. As reported in the Sun-Sentinel, the accident happened before dawn on Indiantown Road just west of Interstate 95 near Taylor Road. The FHP spokesperson, Lt. Frith, said that the victim was wearing a helmet and protective lenses when he was killed. One eastbound lane of Indiantown Road was closed for two hours after the motorcycle accident occurred.

Emergency response personnel say that the victim was eastbound on Indiantown Road about 6:20 a.m. when a 53-year-old pickup truck driver pulled his truck out of the Sierra Square Shopping Center and drove into the path of the oncoming motorcycle.

Lt. Frith said, “For years, this guy [the driver of the pickup] has had a routine—he works at Pratt Whitney and stops there for a cup of coffee.” However, when the driver pulled out of the parking lot this time, he looked through the motorcycle and pulled right out in front of him,” he said.

Having no time to react, the motorcycle rider hit the door of the truck.

Lt. Frith also said, “For some reason, especially when the motorcycles are close, people look over them and through them. We suggest riders wear a reflective vest…or something.”

Only California and Texas have more deaths caused by motorcycle accidents each year than Florida. Although the victim killed in the motorcycle accident was wearing a helmet, the State of Florida does not require motorcycle riders over the age of 20 to wear a helmet while riding. Florida’s agreeable climate for motorcycle riding coupled with higher gas prices has inspired more people to save money by riding a motorcycle. However, the rising number of riders means more motorcyclists will be injured and killed by negligent drivers.

If a motorcyclist is injured or killed due to the negligence of another motorcyclist or driver, he or she may be able to recover financial compensation from the negligent party or the negligent party’s insurance carrier to pay medical bills, reimburse lost wages and for pain and suffering. Orlando motorcycle accident attorney James Cunningham has been helping accident victims receive just compensation since 1977. If you or someone you care for has been injured or killed in a Central Florida motorcycle accident, call The Law Offices of James O. Cunningham to schedule a free consultation.