Teen Motorcyclist Stabilizes After Deadly State Road 70 Crash in Bradenton

A tragic motorcycle crash on State Road 70 in Bradenton claimed the life of one teenager and left another seriously injured early Monday morning, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).

FHP officials say the crash occurred before 3:30 a.m. near Caruso Road.

According to investigators:

• Two teenagers, ages 16 and 17, were riding together on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle
• The motorcycle ran a red light and collided with a sedan
• The 16-year-old rider died at the scene
• The 17-year-old passenger was critically injured and transported to HCA Florida Blake Hospital

Authorities later confirmed that the 17-year-old has stabilized, but remains seriously injured and continues to receive medical care.

The driver of the sedan involved in the crash was also transported to a hospital but was later released.

Motorcycles provide little protection in the event of a collision, especially at intersections. When a crash occurs at speed, the risk of fatal or life-altering injuries increases significantly.

Common factors in deadly motorcycle crashes include:

• Failure to obey traffic signals
• Limited visibility during overnight and early morning hours
• Speed and reduced reaction time
• Inexperience, particularly among younger riders

Teen riders are especially vulnerable due to limited driving experience and reduced ability to anticipate hazards.

Understanding Liability After a Fatal Motorcycle Crash

Even when preliminary reports suggest a traffic violation, a full investigation is critical. Investigators typically review:

• Traffic signal timing and visibility
• Vehicle speeds and braking patterns
• Roadway design and lighting
• Helmet use and safety equipment
• Surveillance or traffic camera footage

In fatal and serious injury crashes, families may still have legal options depending on the full circumstances surrounding the collision.

Legal Rights After a Fatal or Serious Motorcycle Accident

Under Florida law, families impacted by fatal motorcycle crashes may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim, while injured survivors may pursue personal injury claims for damages such as:

• Medical expenses and future care
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Loss of companionship and emotional support
• Funeral and burial expenses

These cases are time-sensitive, and critical evidence can be lost quickly if not preserved.

How Flanagan & Bodenheimer Helps Motorcycle Crash Victims

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent families and individuals affected by serious motorcycle crashes throughout Florida, including Bradenton and Manatee County.

We intentionally limit our caseload so every client has direct access to an experienced attorney. Our firm acts quickly to:

• Conduct independent crash investigations
• Preserve video, data, and physical evidence
• Review FHP reports and accident reconstructions
• Identify all available insurance coverage
• Handle all communications with insurers

Clients pay nothing upfront. We only recover fees if we recover compensation.

If your family has been affected by a fatal or serious motorcycle crash, you do not have to navigate this difficult time alone.

📞 Contact Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm for a free, confidential consultation. We proudly represent motorcycle accident victims and families throughout Bradenton, Manatee County, and across Florida.