Bike Week suffered its fifth fatality in Volusia County and Flagler County this morning. A motorcyclist from Port Orange was killed in a tragic car accident when a Lincoln Town Car turned in front of him on Airport Road where it meets U.S. 1. The motorcycle was driving north on Airport Road when a 76-year-old Ormond Beach resident turned left, forcing the rider to swerve to avoid him. The motorcyclist lost control and the bike and rider slid under the tires of the car. A witness stated that the motorcycle was under control and being operated at a safe speed just before the accident occurred. According to her, the motorcyclist had no opportunity to avoid the collision.
With this accident, Bike Week 2012 exceeded the total fatalities of Bike Week 2011 in these counties. Bike Week runs through March 18th and is billed as the “World’s Largest Motorcycle Event.” Some estimate that more than half a million motorcycle enthusiasts participate in the range of activities that make up Bike Week. Such an event also draws attention to the safety issues that affect motorcyclists and the motorists who share the road with them. It is an excellent time to renew the commitment to “start seeing motorcycles.”
The accident is currently being investigated by the Florida Highway Patrol. The driver was given an alcohol test, with results still pending. The motorcyclist’s loved ones deserve to know what happened to cause this tragic accident. If the eyewitness account is accurate, the negligence of the Lincoln’s driver cost the motorcyclist his life.
Source: The Daytona Beach News-Journal, “Port Orange man killed in motorcycle crash near Ormand Beach,” by Patricio G. Balona, 16 March 2012
