POLK COUNTY, Fla. — The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal accident that happened May 12 on Old Lake Alfred Road near Keystone Road. Officials said a Dodge Charger struck a bicyclist from behind.
Authorities identified the bicyclist as Zackeriah Lamon-Kemp, 19. Emergency personnel arrived at 10:13 p.m. and pronounced him dead at the scene.
Lamon-Kemp rode a black Hover electric bicycle when a black 2014 Dodge Charger traveling in the same direction hit him.
The driver of the Charger and a passenger were uninjured and cooperated with the investigation.
Officials confirmed Lamon-Kemp was wearing dark clothing and no helmet. Authorities have not determined whether the bike’s lights were functioning at the time of the accident.
Traffic homicide detectives do not believe impairment, speed, or distraction contributed to the accident. The investigation remains ongoing.
Zackeriah Lamon-Kemp tragically killed in Polk County bicycle accident
BICYCLE CRASH INVESTIGATION
Our roads pose a unique danger for bicycle riders. According to the National Safety Council, 932 bicyclists were killed in motor-vehicle traffic crashes in 2020, an 8.9% increase from the year before.
Candice Bond, an experienced bicycle accident attorney, noted that it is imperative to have an independent probe conducted as soon as possible to preserve evidence in cases such as this.
“Having the proper resources is extremely important when investigating a bicycle accident case and demonstrating that there was negligence on the part of another party,” said Bond, Managing Partner of Bond Legal.
“In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney has the resources to interview expert witnesses, conduct defendant background checks, and review applicable insurance coverage,” added Bond, who is also a National Legal Analyst for Accident Injury News.
WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM
Pending the results of any investigations, the family of Zackeriah Lamon-Kemp may pursue a wrongful death claim. Survivors often seek damages for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident.
Bond said, “Grieving families of victims are sometimes overwhelmed by the legal processes that are in place to protect their rights. An attorney can be a valuable and compassionate resource to help guide a family during this difficult time and ensure that those left behind receive the restitution they are entitled to.”
Accident Injury News' national legal analyst Candice Bond is experienced in fatal bicycle accidents, and if you or a family member need help, she is available for a free consultation to guide you
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Accident Injury News can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-986-7738 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).
