Motorcyclist in Critical Condition After Collision on State Road 64 in Sarasota County

A 28-year-old Parrish man was critically injured Sunday afternoon following a collision between his motorcycle and a sedan along State Road 64 in Sarasota County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).

The crash occurred around 4:30 p.m. near River Heritage Boulevard, a busy intersection that often sees heavy weekend traffic.

Troopers reported that a 75-year-old Bradenton woman driving a sedan was traveling eastbound on SR-64 when she attempted to make a left turn — driving directly into the path of the oncoming westbound motorcycle.

Despite the motorcyclist’s attempt to avoid impact, he struck the right side of the sedan. The force of the collision threw him from the bike, causing life-threatening injuries.

Emergency crews airlifted the rider to HCA Florida Blake Hospital, where he remains in critical condition. The driver of the sedan was not reported injured.

FHP troopers are continuing to investigate the crash, including whether failure to yield or visibility factors contributed to the collision.

Intersections like State Road 64 and River Heritage Boulevard are among the most common sites for serious motorcycle crashes in Florida. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), left-turn accidents account for a significant percentage of fatal motorcycle collisions statewide.

Common causes of intersection motorcycle crashes include:

• Drivers misjudging a motorcycle’s speed or distance
• Failure to yield while turning left
• Distracted or inattentive driving
• Limited visibility due to sunlight or obstructions
• Speeding or unsafe passing maneuvers

Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable because even minor collisions can result in catastrophic injuries such as:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord damage
• Internal bleeding
• Compound fractures and amputations

Unlike enclosed vehicle drivers, motorcyclists have little protection against impact forces, often resulting in long-term medical treatment and permanent disability.

Legal Rights After a Motorcycle Accident in Florida

When a driver fails to yield or violates another motorist’s right-of-way, they may be held legally liable for resulting injuries and damages. Victims of motorcycle crashes are entitled to pursue compensation for:

• Emergency medical care and hospitalization
• Surgeries, rehabilitation, and future medical expenses
• Lost income and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional trauma and loss of enjoyment of life
• Property damage to the motorcycle

If negligence or reckless driving played a role in the collision — such as failing to yield, distracted driving, or ignoring traffic signals — a personal injury claim can help hold the at-fault driver accountable.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, our attorneys investigate every aspect of the crash, including traffic signal timing, intersection design, and eyewitness accounts, to build a strong case for full and fair compensation.

Motorcycle safety advocates continue to stress the importance of awareness and caution on Florida’s roads. With over 600,000 registered motorcycles in the state, the need for improved driver education and roadway design is critical.

Tips for preventing motorcycle crashes include:

• Drivers should always double-check for motorcycles before turning or merging.
• Motorcyclists should use high-visibility gear and keep headlights on, even during the day.
• Both parties should avoid distractions such as texting or adjusting in-car devices.
• Drivers must respect motorcyclists’ right-of-way, particularly at intersections.

Despite these precautions, Florida continues to rank among the top three states for motorcycle fatalities.

How Flanagan & Bodenheimer Can Help Motorcycle Accident Victims

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we’ve helped countless Florida families rebuild their lives after devastating motorcycle crashes. Our attorneys understand the unique challenges riders face when pursuing compensation against negligent drivers and insurance companies.

We handle cases involving:

• Left-turn collisions
• Intersection and roadway design defects
• Negligent or distracted drivers
• Fatal motorcycle accidents
• Insurance disputes and underinsured motorist claims

Our firm offers free consultations and operates on a no-win, no-fee basis — meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation on your behalf.

Contact a Florida Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash on State Road 64 or anywhere in Florida, contact the experienced attorneys at Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm today.

We represent injured riders and grieving families throughout Sarasota, Bradenton, Tampa, and all of South Florida, helping them pursue justice and maximum recovery.

📞 Call (305) 638-4143 or reach out online for a free, confidential case evaluation.