LAKE COUNTY, Fla. – A professional triathlete is calling for increased cycling safety measures from her hospital bed after becoming the latest victim of a hit-and-run crash in Central Florida.
Gabrielle Suver was training for an upcoming Ironman competition when a vehicle sideswiped her and fled the scene. The incident adds to growing concerns about cyclist safety in the region.
“It makes me sad. I know people have places to go, but nothing is more important than someone’s life,” Suver said from her hospital room.
The professional athlete, who cherishes cycling for its sense of freedom, expressed uncertainty about returning to road training given the increasing dangers.
“There does need to be more education, safety protocols, especially with so much more congestion now. It’s more important than ever for people to look out for each other,” she said.
[VIDEO: Clermont triathlete sideswiped in Lake County hit-and-run, left seriously hurt]
The incident highlights a broader safety crisis for cyclists in Florida. According to Matt Scarborough, an attorney specializing in bicycle accident cases, the state averages 18 bicycle crashes daily.
[BELOW: Clermont triathlete sideswiped in Lake County hit-and-run, left seriously hurt]
“We actually have a constitutional right to be on the road as a cyclist, and we’re treated like a motor vehicle,” Scarborough said. “Drivers need to slow down, pay attention, and respect us.”
Scarborough pointed out two critical issues contributing to cyclist vulnerability: drivers failing to give cyclists adequate space and Florida’s law not requiring liability insurance for all motorists.
While the local community has rallied around Suver with donations to help cover medical expenses, she remains uncertain about her future in the sport.
“I’m not sure how much I would want to ride outside anymore because it’s getting so dangerous. Unless there’s change... changes. I don’t know. But I hope so,” Suver said.
The incident has sparked renewed calls for enhanced safety measures and driver education to protect cyclists on Central Florida roads.
The Florida Highway Patrol urges anyone with information about the hit-and-run driver to contact them or CRIMELINE.
The GoFundMe to support Suver can be found here.