Semi-Truck Strikes and Kills Student On Bicycle in South Florida

According to a report from NBC 6 South Florida, a semi-truck collided with two young teenagers who were on their bicycles in South Florida. Tragically, Landon Coggin, 13, was killed in the accident. Another student, 12-year-old Elias Angel, was injured. Here, our Miami semi-truck accident attorney explains what we know about this tragic collision and discusses the risk that large commercial trucks pose to cyclists.

Student Killed in Heartbreaking Truck Accident in Palm Beach County 

In a tragic incident near Lake Worth, a 13-year-old boy named Landon Coggin lost his life in a bicycle accident. As confirmed by NBC 6 South Florida, the boy was riding along the shoulder of Lyons Road with his friend. They were near the Woodlands Middle School. According to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, the two boys accidentally collided with each other and slid into the adjacent roadway. In a heartbreaking tragedy, a semi-truck was passing by at the same time. The rear-end tires of the large commercial truck hit both kids. Landon succumbed to his injuries at the scene. His friend was transported to the Delray Medical Center with serious injuries. Authorities have determined that the truck driver was not at fault in this devastating accident. Though, the fatal bike accident is still under a more comprehensive investigation by law enforcement.

 Cyclists are Vulnerable to Large Commercial Trucks 

A fully loaded tractor trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Even an empty tractor trailer weighs nearly 35,000 pounds on average. These enormous vehicles pose an inherent safety hazard to bicyclists and pedestrians. Another issue is that commercial trucks have large blind spots that can make it more difficult for truckers to see cyclists—especially at intersections or during the middle of turns. Unlike cars, bicycles offer no structural protection. Riders can reduce their risk by wearing a bicycle safety helmet—but they cannot completely eliminate it.

Bicycle Safety Must Be a Top Priority for Children and Teenagers 

Florida’s infrastructure is not always the most-favorable for cyclists. Unfortunately, it can put riders into potentially risky situations. While that is a very serious concern for all cyclists, it is an especially important issue for children and teenagers. They are more vulnerable to being hit by a car while on a bicycle. Indeed, bicycle safety must be a top priority for kids and teens. Proper safety precautions—from wearing helmets to wearing reflective gear to obeying traffic laws to avoiding the most risky stretches of road—can help to prevent serious accidents. Parents should educate their children on safe riding practices, including staying in designated bike lanes, being aware of their surroundings, and making eye contact with drivers. Schools and communities can also help.

 Schedule a Free Case Review With Our Miami, FL Truck Accident Lawyer Today

At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our Miami tractor trailer accident attorneys are ready to fight for justice and compensation for injured victims. If you or your child was struck by a commercial truck, we are here to help. Contact us at our Miami law office today for a free, no obligation review of your case. Our firm serves truck accident victims all across South Florida.