Professional Triathlete Seriously Injured in Clermont Hit-and-Run: Legal Options for Victims

A well-known Central Florida triathlete is recovering from life-threatening injuries after being struck and forced off the road by a hit-and-run driver during a routine training ride in Clermont. The Florida Highway Patrol is actively searching for the person responsible.

Around 8 a.m. on Saturday, professional triathlete Gabrielle Suver was cycling along County Road 541 in Clermont—a popular training route for endurance athletes—when a vehicle came dangerously close, forced her off the roadway, and fled the scene.

Although no one witnessed the actual impact, several people saw the aftermath and called 911. Suver was airlifted to Orlando Regional Medical Center, where doctors treated her for multiple traumatic injuries.

Her injuries include:

• A lower-leg fracture requiring rod placement
• Three spinal fractures
• Three broken ribs
• A broken elbow
• A concussion

Suver also had to undergo back surgery. Despite the severity of her injuries, she is expected to recover.

Suver is a celebrated athlete in the Central Florida triathlon community:

• 2024 Track Shack Running Series Champion
• 5th place finisher in Ironman Chattanooga (September 2025)
• Scheduled to compete in the Ironman Cozumel just one week after the crash

Her coach and close friend, Rebecca Marsh, shared the emotional impact the incident has had on the community:

“I want them to see what they’ve done and who they’ve hurt. Gabby is loved by this community—not just because she’s a great athlete, but because of who she is.”

Florida consistently ranks among the most dangerous states in the nation for cyclists. Hit-and-run crashes in particular have surged in recent years. Drivers may flee due to:

• Distracted or impaired driving
• Lack of insurance
• Fear of consequences
• Speeding or careless operation

Cyclists—who have no physical protection aside from helmets—often suffer catastrophic or fatal injuries.

Under Florida Statute §316.027, leaving the scene of a crash involving injury or death is a felony carrying severe criminal penalties.

Legal Rights and Options for Injured Cyclists

Even before FHP identifies the hit-and-run driver, injured cyclists like Suver—and their families—may have several avenues for compensation.

1. Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage

If the at-fault driver is never identified, UM coverage on the victim’s own auto policy can provide compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Long-term disability

Many cyclists don’t realize their car insurance can protect them during bicycle accidents.

2. Negligence Claims Against the At-Fault Driver

If the driver is identified, they may be liable for:

• Reckless or careless driving
• Failing to maintain safe passing distance
• Violating Florida’s 3-foot passing law
• Leaving the scene of a crash

Cyclists have the same rights to Florida roadways as motor vehicles under Florida Statute §316.2065.

3. Third-Party Liability

In some cases, other entities may share responsibility:

• Roadway design issues
• Poor signage
• Improper shoulder maintenance
• Hazardous debris or construction zones

A thorough investigation may uncover additional negligent parties.

4. Damages Cycling Injury Victims May Recover

Depending on the circumstances, injured cyclists may pursue compensation for:

• Emergency medical care
• Future medical treatment and surgeries
• Lost earning capacity
• Pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy

Given the extent of Suver’s injuries—including spinal trauma—these damages can be substantial.

Why Immediate Legal Action Is Critical

Hit-and-run investigations move quickly, and evidence disappears fast. An experienced attorney can help secure:

• Surveillance footage along the route
• Eyewitness accounts
• Vehicle debris analysis
• Electronic data from nearby businesses or homes
• Forensic reconstruction of the crash

Prompt action often makes the difference in identifying the at-fault driver.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we have represented numerous cyclists and endurance athletes injured in preventable crashes. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges these victims face—and the complexities of cases involving hit-and-run drivers.

Our firm offers:

• Free consultations
• Contingency-fee representation (no fees unless we win)
• Direct access to your attorney
• A thorough, compassionate approach to every case

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle or hit-and-run crash in Florida, contact us today. We are here to fight for justice, accountability, and the compensation you deserve.