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The fatal crash happened around 11:12 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, when a Honda CR-V driven by 70-year-old Wesley Chapel resident Jaykumar Chaturbhai Patel was traveling north on Handcart Road. Investigators said Patel attempted to make a left turn onto Old Bridge Road and entered the path of a southbound Yamaha motorcycle operated by the Zephyrhills man.
The motorcycle struck the SUV, throwing both people from the bike. Emergency units took the rider and his passenger to a nearby hospital with severe injuries. The rider later died, while the woman remained hospitalized.
According to investigators, Patel did not stay at the roadway after the collision. Troopers later located him at his residence. He was arrested and charged with Leaving the Scene of a Crash Involving Death, Leaving the Scene of a Crash Involving Serious Bodily Injury, and Leaving the Scene of a Crash Involving Property Damage. Further review of the circumstances surrounding the fatality is continuing.
Our hearts go out to the man’s family and friends during this difficult time.
Why Leaving the Roadway After a Serious Crash Can Lead to Additional Criminal Charges
Drivers involved in traffic collisions are generally required to stop, remain at the roadway, and provide assistance when possible. Laws in many states impose severe penalties when a motorist leaves after a crash that results in serious harm or death.
Investigators commonly review vehicle damage, witness statements, surveillance footage, and physical evidence to determine what occurred before and after a collision. When a driver departs, determining the sequence of events can become more difficult and may delay emergency assistance for those who need medical care.
Criminal penalties related to leaving the roadway can be separate from any findings regarding fault for the collision itself. As a result, a motorist may face additional charges if investigators determine that legal duties following a crash were not fulfilled.
