According to the deputies, a man and woman were riding a black 2022 Harley-Davidson and a red & black 2017 Harley-Davidson motorcycles side-by-side southbound on Commonwealth Avenue North when they were hit head-on by an oncoming Dodge Charger.
Polk County, FL – A Clermont man was among three people who died following a crash involving two motorcycles and two other vehicles near Polk City in Polk County on Sunday night, according to a report by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
At about 8 p.m. March 8, authorities responded to reports of a multi-vehicle pile-up in the 15000 block of Commonwealth Avenue North (State Road 33) near L A Combee Drive.
According to the deputies, a man and woman were riding a black 2022 Harley-Davidson and a red & black 2017 Harley-Davidson motorcycles side-by-side southbound on Commonwealth Avenue North when they were hit head-on by an oncoming Dodge Charger. The Dodge was trying to overtake three vehicles and was traveling north in the southbound lanes when it hit the riders.
The impact ejected the male motorcyclist and threw him into the northbound lanes, where he was struck by a white 2011 Jeep Compass.
Deputies with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and the Polk County Fire Rescue crews immediately responded to the site of the accident and attended to the involved parties.
Authorities confirmed that the two motorcyclists died at the site of the collision. The identities of the deceased riders were not immediately disclosed.
The driver of the Dodge, Richard Lee Logan, 75, of Clermont, was taken to an area hospital, where he also succumbed to his injuries. His passenger, a 75-year-old woman, was hospitalized with minor injuries.
The driver of the Jeep was not injured in the collision and remained at the scene.
Both sides of Commonwealth Avenue were shut down for over four hours as authorities examined and cleared the scene. Drivers were advised to avoid the area as the closures were in place.
It’s unclear whether speed or impairment were factors in the incident but authorities reported that no charges were expected.
An investigation into the incident is currently ongoing.
Traffic fatalities remain a significant concern across Florida. According to the Florida Department of Transportation’s most recent annual crash report, there were 3396 traffic deaths statewide in 2023, marking one of the highest totals in the nation. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also shows that large trucks were involved in thousands of fatal crashes nationwide in recent years.
If you’ve lost a loved one in a fatal car accident, speaking with a skilled car accident attorney can help you understand your legal rights during this difficult time. An attorney can guide your family through the claims process, protect your interests, and pursue compensation for your loss. Reach out today for compassionate legal support and a free case evaluation.