NEWS ALERT - Bicyclist Critical After Being Hit By Van

BY KELLI PEACOCK DUNN
News Editor

A bicyclist from Marianna is in critical condition after colliding with a van in Calhoun County Monday.

Mark F. Long, 48, was transported to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital following the accident.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, Rajesh G. Patel, 55, of Vidalia, Georgia, was behind the wheel of a 1999 Chrysler van headed north on County Road 167 just before 6 p.m. Near the intersection of Walter Potts Road, Patel approached Long who was also northbound on his bicycle. Patel reportedly attempted to overtake the bicyclist on the left, but Long changed course and traveled from the outside of the lane to the center. The right front of the van collided with the rear of the bicycle, ejecting long onto the east shoulder.

Patel and his passenger, Hansa Patel, 55, did not sustain any injuries.
The accident is being investigated by Trooper Dallas Jones.