Island Resident Seeks Over $50,000 in Damages Following Son’s E-Bike Accident
Last Updated on September 16, 2024 by Kristina Grant
A Nantucket resident is seeking over $50,000 in damages for his son, who suffered “serious and permanent injuries” in an e-bike accident last July. The collision occurred when the boy, a passenger on an e-bike operated by a friend, collided with a 2017 Ford Transit on Somerset Road.
Jonathan Heneke has filed a civil lawsuit in Nantucket Superior Court against Sergio Estevez Mejia, Richard Tejada, and Michael Occhiuto. Mejia was driving the Ford Transit, which is owned by Tejada, while Occhiuto is the father of the boy operating the e-bike. The lawsuit alleges negligence by all three defendants.
The accident took place on July 13, 2023, around 1:15 p.m., as the two boys were traveling east on Manchester Circle on the e-bike. They entered the intersection of Somerset Road and Roberts Lane as Mejia, who had Tejada’s permission to drive the Ford Transit, was traveling north on Somerset Road.
According to the lawsuit, the collision resulted in severe and permanent injuries to Heneke’s son, leading to medical expenses, lost wages, and a diminished quality of life. Heneke alleges that Mejia failed to adequately pay attention to his surroundings and did not operate his vehicle with the required care, contributing to the accident.
The lawsuit asserts that Mejia had a heightened duty to be cautious around pedestrians, including e-bike riders, and his negligence was a direct cause of the crash. It also holds Tejada responsible under Massachusetts law for Mejia’s actions, given that he allowed Mejia to drive his vehicle.
In addition, the lawsuit claims that the minor e-bike operator had a duty to operate the e-bike safely and attentively, and his unsafe entry into the intersection was a factor in the collision.
Heneke is requesting the court to rule in his favor, awarding damages against Mejia, Tejada, and the minor, represented by Occhiuto. He is also seeking a jury trial to address all issues, along with interest, court costs, and any other relief deemed appropriate by the court.
What are your thoughts on this case? Do you believe the parties involved should be held accountable? Share your opinions in the comments below! If you found this article informative, don’t forget to like and share it with others who might be interested in the impact of e-bike accidents and legal proceedings. For more updates on similar stories, subscribe to our blog!
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Kristina Grant is not just an enthusiast but a true authority on electric bikes. Nestled in the coastal beauty of Virginia, Kristina has found the perfect backdrop for her passion for electric biking. As a dedicated wife and homeschooling mom, her life revolves around family, faith, and the thrill of adventure.
Originally hailing from Ohio, Kristina's journey with electric bikes began as a curiosity and quickly evolved into a deep expertise. Her blog is a testament to her love for electric biking, combining her fascination for eco-friendly transportation with her coastal lifestyle.
When she's not cruising the beach on her electric bike, you'll find Kristina indulging in her other loves: long walks along the shore, getting lost in a good book, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. With a heart as big as her love for animals, especially cats, Kristina brings a unique perspective to the electric bike world, grounded in her strong faith in God and her dedication to a sustainable lifestyle.
Through her blog, Kristina shares her extensive knowledge of electric bikes, offering valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the electric bike scene, Kristina's blog is your go-to source for all things electric biking, fueled by her passion, expertise, and the scenic beauty of coastal Virginia.
