Motorcycle Crash in Sarasota Causes Major Morning Delays: Legal Considerations for Injured Riders

A serious crash between a motorcycle and an SUV caused significant traffic delays for Sarasota commuters Wednesday morning. According to reports, the crash occurred at the busy intersection of University Parkway and Honore Avenue during the height of the morning rush.

Florida Department of Transportation traffic cameras showed emergency crews responding to the scene. One injured individual was loaded into an ambulance, though authorities have not yet released the identity or condition of those involved.

The collision caused heavy backups stretching more than three miles along University Parkway and slowed traffic on Honore Avenue. By 9:00 a.m., officials confirmed that all lanes were reopened, though one turn lane had remained blocked earlier in the morning as first responders cleared the scene.

The Florida Highway Patrol and local law enforcement continue to investigate the circumstances of the crash.

Motorcycles offer little physical protection compared to cars or trucks. Even at low speeds, riders can be thrown from their bikes, suffering catastrophic injuries such as:

• Traumatic brain injuries (even when wearing helmets)
• Broken bones and spinal injuries
• Severe road rash and disfigurement
• Internal bleeding and organ damage

Because of these risks, motorcyclists are more than 28 times more likely to die in crashes compared to passenger vehicle occupants, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Legal Options After a Motorcycle Crash in Florida

When a motorcyclist is injured or killed in a crash caused by another driver’s negligence, Florida law provides avenues for recovery through personal injury or wrongful death claims.

Personal Injury Claims

An injured rider may be able to pursue compensation for:

• Medical bills, including emergency treatment, surgeries, and rehabilitation
• Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life
• Costs of long-term care or disability accommodations

Wrongful Death Claims

If the crash proves fatal, surviving family members may bring a wrongful death claim under Florida Statutes §768.21. Recoverable damages can include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship, guidance, and protection
• Mental pain and suffering for surviving spouses, parents, or children

Determining Liability in Motorcycle Accidents

Florida follows the rule of comparative negligence, meaning fault can be shared between parties. Common issues investigators will examine in this Sarasota crash include:

• Did the SUV driver fail to yield while turning or changing lanes?
• Was speeding, distracted driving, or impairment involved?
• Did poor intersection visibility or traffic signal timing contribute?
• Was the motorcyclist traveling lawfully, or did unsafe maneuvers play a role?

Even if an injured motorcyclist is found partially at fault, they may still recover damages, though the award would be reduced by their percentage of fault.

Crash scenes can be cleared within hours, but critical evidence — skid marks, traffic camera footage, and eyewitness accounts — may disappear or fade over time. Retaining an attorney promptly allows for:

• Immediate preservation of evidence
• Accident reconstruction by experts
• Subpoenas for traffic or surveillance video
• Proper communication with insurance companies to prevent lowball settlements

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent motorcycle accident victims and their families across Florida. Our attorneys understand the devastating impact of these collisions and fight to ensure injured riders receive the compensation they deserve.

We offer:

• Free, no-obligation consultations
• Contingency fee representation (no fees unless we win)
• Personalized, hands-on legal strategies for each client

If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle crash in Sarasota or anywhere in Florida, you don’t have to face the insurance companies alone. Contact Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm today to discuss your rights and legal options.