A woman riding her electric bike near Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport was struck by a driver, resulting in severe injuries but a bizarre act of partial compassion followed. The hit-and-run, which occurred on the night of May 31, left Margarita Lopez with a spinal cord injury and extensive road rash. Lopez recounted the harrowing experience, noting the abruptness of the event and her disbelief that she might have been at fault. "I just remember flying," she told NBC Miami, expressing relief at being able to return home, despite the trauma.
Footage from a tunnel camera captured the aftermath of the accident as the driver of a silver SUV checked on Lopez and attempted to halt traffic, after hitting her. In a gesture that contrasts his final decision to abandon the scene, the driver helped a disoriented Lopez to her feet, then placed her damaged bike against a wall before driving away. The incident took place shortly before 9 p.m., according to Local 10, in the 4500 block of South Federal Highway.
Broward Sheriff's Office deputies and Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue teams responded to the call and transported Lopez to the hospital for treatment. As investigations continue, authorities are on the lookout for the hit-and-run driver, urging anyone with information to contact Broward Crime Stoppers. This hit-and-run is not the first that Lopez has experienced, she, herself revealed a similar ordeal from five years ago when another vehicle struck her and fled the scene.
Despite her harrowing ordeal, Lopez's optimism remains, as she reflects on her luck at surviving and being there for her granddaughter. "With all my fractures, I shouldn't even be walking," Lopez expressed gratitude for being alive and implored drivers to be more cautious. "Slow down, everybody pay attention," she said. A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Lopez, who is currently unable to work due to the injuries sustained. Her message emphasizes the urgency for increased awareness and safety on the roads, particularly as city traffic intensifies, as per NBC Miami.
