Veterinarian Killed in Hit-and-Run Bicycle Accident

By Orlando Personal Injury Attorney on January 12, 2011

Concerned Floridians have erected a small white sign by the side of a busy highway to remind motorists that their actions have real life and death consequences. The sign reads, “Motorists: Stop killing bicyclists.” It was placed near the spot where a popular veterinarian and avid bicyclist was struck and killed on February 20 in a fatal hit-and-run bicycle accident. Accident investigators say the victim was riding his bike in the bike lane on Fletcher Avenue that Sunday afternoon when witnesses say he was struck and killed by a black Ford traveling at a high rate of speed. Some witnesses believe that the Ford was racing with another vehicle when the accident occurred.

Bicycle activist Alan Snel rides the same stretch of busy road regularly and voiced what many people were thinking when they heard of the man’s death. He said, “This was a complete, tragic and needless death.” The victim was married, had a 21-year-old daughter, held a black belt in Judo and was a Judo instructor. Friends said the victim rode his bike dozens of miles each week to improve his endurance during Judo practices and matches. The victim was born in Poland and emigrated to the U.S. in the mid-80s to escape the communist government.

Police have apprehended the 20-year-old female driver of the Ford and the 34-year-old driver of the Honda believed to be racing the Ford when the accident occurred. Police are asking anyone who witnessed the Ford racing the Honda on Fletcher Avenue on the afternoon of February 20 to contact Hillsborough Police at 813-247-8200. Police have not yet charged either driver in connection with the accident, but it is believed that charges are pending.

Orlando personal injury lawyer James O. Cunningham is watching developments in the case very closely and reminds bicyclists to be extra cautious when riding on or near busy streets and highways. If these two drivers were racing, this is exactly the type of reckless, negligent behavior that frequently contributes to tragic accidents like this one. If a negligent party has injured you, you have a right to seek damages to help pay for medical bills, lost time at work, ongoing medical care and other expenses. If you’re looking for an experienced Orlando personal injury attorney to answer questions and represent you, call Mr. Cunningham today at 888-425-2004 or 407-425-2000 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.

James O. Cunningham

Since 1977, personal injury lawyer James Cunningham has provided effective legal advocacy to people who are injured through the negligent actions of another person or entity throughout the Central Florida area. He fights to obtain recoveries for his clients’ physical and emotional pain and suffering and pursues his clients’ personal injury cases with a commitment to excellence and impeccable preparation.