Lakewood man charged in collision that hospitalized motorcycle rider for months

WALL−A Lakewood man has been charged with assault by auto in a Nov. 15 crash that kept a 73-year-old Belmar motorcycle rider in a hospital for months.

Daniel A. Abbott, 48, turned himself into police Monday following the months-long investigation. One of the factors that led to the charge was a cell phone that Abbott was using when the crash occurred, police said.

Abott was driving a Ford van west on Allenwood-Lakewood Road when the van crossed over into the eastbound lane and struck the Belmar man who was riding a Harley Davidson motorcycle, police said.

The motorcycle rider, whose name was not released, was severely injured and taken to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, where he remained for several months, police said.

Wall police, Monmouth County Serious Collision Analysis Response Team and the Fatal Accident Investigation Unit of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office investigated.

Ken Serrano covers breaking news, crime and investigations. Reach him at 732-643-4029 or kserrano@gannettnj.com