Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Orange County Claims Passenger’s Life

A tragic collision on Saturday afternoon left one person dead and another seriously injured after a motorcycle and pickup truck collided, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).

The crash occurred around 4 p.m. at the intersection of Lake Pleasant Road and State Road 436. Troopers said a 2024 Ford Maverick attempted a U-turn, pulling directly into the path of a 2012 Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

The impact threw both the rider and passenger from the motorcycle. The passenger was pronounced dead at the scene, while the rider was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. The driver of the Ford Maverick was not reported injured.

Under Florida traffic laws, drivers attempting U-turns must yield to oncoming traffic and ensure that the roadway is clear before completing the maneuver. If investigators determine that the Ford Maverick driver failed to yield the right-of-way, they may be held liable for the fatal crash.

Potential contributing factors investigators will examine include:

• Whether the Ford Maverick driver misjudged the motorcycle’s speed.
• If visibility at the intersection played a role.
• Whether distracted driving, impairment, or reckless driving were involved.

Wrongful Death and Personal Injury Claims

For the family of the deceased passenger, Florida’s Wrongful Death Act (Fla. Stat. § 768.16 – § 768.26) allows surviving family members to pursue damages. These can include compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, emotional suffering, and the loss of companionship.

The injured rider may also have a personal injury claim for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs. If the crash investigation reveals negligence by the Ford Maverick’s driver, these claims could hold both the driver and their insurance company accountable.

Left-turn and U-turn crashes are among the most dangerous scenarios for motorcyclists. Drivers of larger vehicles often underestimate the speed of motorcycles or fail to see them altogether. Because motorcyclists lack the physical protection of a vehicle, these collisions frequently lead to catastrophic injuries or fatalities.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, our attorneys have significant experience handling motorcycle accident cases in Florida. We understand the devastating impact these crashes have on families and fight to ensure victims receive full and fair compensation.

If you have lost a loved one or suffered injuries in a motorcycle crash, call our firm today for a free consultation. We are here to investigate the case, protect your rights, and hold negligent drivers accountable.