Motorcyclist Dies in Crash at East Terry Street and Imperial Parkway in Bonita Springs

A 22-year-old Naples man was tragically killed Wednesday morning in a motorcycle crash at the busy intersection of East Terry Street and Imperial Parkway, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).

Troopers reported that the fatal accident happened at approximately 11:49 a.m. and involved a 2016 Yamaha motorcycle and a 2013 Jeep.

The Naples motorcyclist was traveling southbound on Imperial Parkway at what investigators described as a high rate of speed. At the same time, an 86-year-old Fort Myers man driving the Jeep attempted to make a left turn from northbound Imperial Parkway onto westbound East Terry Street.

The motorcycle collided with the Jeep’s right front side in the intersection, ejecting the rider from his bike. The motorcycle itself was engulfed in flames following the impact. Sadly, the motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Jeep driver and his 74-year-old female passenger were not injured, according to FHP. The crash temporarily blocked all lanes of traffic as deputies and fire crews responded.

Legal Considerations After Motorcycle Crashes

Motorcycle accidents at intersections are among the most dangerous roadway collisions, often leaving riders with severe or fatal injuries due to their vulnerability. Florida law requires all drivers making left-hand turns to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic, under Florida Statutes §316.122. However, speeding can complicate these cases, raising questions about comparative fault.

In this case, multiple legal factors may be relevant:

• Driver Negligence: If the Jeep driver failed to yield properly while turning left, liability may be assigned.
• Excessive Speed: If the motorcyclist was proven to be significantly over the speed limit, Florida’s comparative negligence law (§768.81, Fla. Stat.) could reduce the damages recoverable by the motorcyclist’s family.
• Vehicle Defects: Mechanical failures, such as defective brakes or signal lights, can sometimes contribute to intersection collisions and may give rise to product liability claims.
• Roadway Design: If visibility at the intersection was poor or traffic signals were malfunctioning, claims may extend to the governmental entities responsible for roadway safety.

Can the Family Pursue a Wrongful Death Claim?

Under Florida’s Wrongful Death Act (§768.16-768.26, Fla. Stat.), the surviving family members of the motorcyclist may have the right to pursue a claim for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical bills related to the accident
• Loss of companionship, guidance, and support
• Mental pain and suffering of surviving parents (if applicable)
• Lost income and benefits the deceased would have provided

Even if the motorcyclist is found partially at fault for speeding, Florida’s comparative fault system allows recovery so long as he was not entirely responsible for the crash. This means the Jeep driver’s role in turning across the motorcyclist’s path will be a central issue in any potential legal action.

This tragedy highlights the critical need for increased awareness at intersections. Drivers of larger vehicles must always check for motorcycles before turning, while riders should remain mindful of their speed, particularly in urban areas with heavy cross-traffic. Public safety campaigns continue to emphasize the importance of “Look Twice, Save a Life” when it comes to sharing the road with motorcyclists.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we have represented families devastated by motorcycle crashes across Florida. These cases often involve complex questions of liability, evidence, and comparative negligence. Our firm works diligently to uncover the facts and pursue justice for victims and their loved ones.

If you lost a loved one in a motorcycle crash or any fatal accident in Florida, contact us today for a free consultation. Our attorneys can help you understand your rights and explore potential legal claims under Florida law.