Deadly Motorcycle Crash Shuts Down Roadway in Alachua County

Authorities have confirmed that one man was killed and a woman critically injured following a deadly motorcycle crash Wednesday afternoon in LaCrosse, Florida, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).

The crash occurred on Northwest County Road 231 near State Road 235, prompting a temporary road closure as investigators worked to determine the cause. Troopers say the victims — a 67-year-old man and a 74-year-old woman from Mentor, Ohio — were riding together when they lost control of their motorcycle, leading to a devastating collision with another vehicle.

Both victims were thrown from the motorcycle upon impact. The man was pronounced dead at the scene, and the woman was airlifted to a nearby hospital in critical condition.

FHP officials continue to investigate the cause of the accident, including factors such as speed, driver distraction, and road conditions. Early reports indicate that the motorcyclist may have lost control just before colliding with the car.

The roadway was closed for several hours while authorities conducted on-site investigations and cleared debris from the scene. By late afternoon, all lanes were reopened to traffic.

As of this time, the names of the victims have not been released pending next-of-kin notification.

Florida consistently ranks among the states with the highest number of motorcycle fatalities in the nation. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), there were over 9,000 motorcycle crashes in 2024, resulting in more than 600 deaths statewide.

Rural areas such as Alachua County often see a higher risk of severe motorcycle crashes due to limited visibility, higher speed limits, and fewer traffic controls.

Even when wearing helmets and safety gear, motorcyclists remain among the most vulnerable road users — facing life-threatening injuries in even minor collisions with passenger vehicles.

Legal Rights After a Fatal Motorcycle Accident in Florida

When a fatal motorcycle accident occurs, surviving family members may have the right to file a wrongful death claim under Florida Statute §768.16–768.26, also known as the Florida Wrongful Death Act.

This law allows eligible family members — such as a spouse, children, or parents — to pursue compensation for the emotional and financial consequences of their loved one’s death, including:

• Medical expenses related to the fatal injury
• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of companionship and support
• Mental pain and suffering
• Loss of income and future financial support

In some cases, if the accident was caused by reckless driving or negligence — such as distracted driving, speeding, or failure to yield — the at-fault driver and their insurance company can be held financially liable for damages.

Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Florida: Step-by-Step

If your loved one was injured or killed in a motorcycle accident in Florida, here’s a general outline of what to expect during the claims process:

1. Report the Accident and Obtain the Crash Report

The first step is to ensure that the accident is documented by law enforcement. The FHP crash report will contain critical information about the parties involved, witnesses, and preliminary findings about fault.

2. Preserve All Evidence

Photographs of the accident scene, medical records, repair invoices, and eyewitness statements can all be used to strengthen a future claim.

3. Seek Medical and Psychological Support

Even if the injuries seem minor, immediate medical attention is essential. Medical documentation will serve as proof of injury, while mental health support can help families cope with the trauma of a sudden loss.

4. Notify Insurance Providers

Notify both your insurance company and the at-fault driver’s insurer as soon as possible. Under Florida’s comparative negligence statute (§768.81), compensation may still be recoverable even if the injured motorcyclist was partially at fault.

5. Consult a Florida Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Due to the complex nature of motorcycle accident claims — particularly those involving severe injury or death — hiring an experienced attorney is crucial. An attorney can help determine fault, negotiate with insurers, and file a wrongful death or personal injury lawsuit if necessary.

Who Can Be Held Liable?

Depending on the investigation’s findings, multiple parties may be responsible for the accident, including:

• The driver of the passenger vehicle, if they failed to yield, made an improper turn, or drove recklessly
• The motorcycle manufacturer, if a mechanical defect contributed to the crash
• A government entity, if poor road maintenance or inadequate signage played a role
• The motorcyclist’s employer, if the crash occurred during work-related travel

Each case is unique, and determining liability requires a detailed review of evidence, witness statements, and expert reconstruction.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we have represented numerous families who lost loved ones in motorcycle and traffic accidents throughout Florida.

Our attorneys understand how devastating these cases are and are committed to pursuing maximum compensation and justice on behalf of victims and their families.

We handle every aspect of the case — from investigating liability to dealing with insurance companies — so you can focus on healing.

If your family has suffered a loss in a motorcycle accident in Alachua County or anywhere in Florida, contact our firm for a free consultation.