Marco Island, FL – A Florida man was arrested last week after he allegedly brake-checked an e-bike rider with a golf cart, causing the victim to fly onto the back of the vehicle and be dragged 50 to 100 yards, authorities said. The incident, which left the e-bike rider with multiple injuries, occurred on North Collier Boulevard and has drawn attention to road safety concerns on Marco Island.
Victim Dragged After Alleged Brake-Check
According to the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, the victim, whose identity has not been released, told deputies that he was riding his e-bike southbound when he first encountered Steven Pickett, 36, driving a golf cart.
The victim stated that Pickett initially yelled at him to get out of the road, prompting him to pull off to the right. However, the golf cart continued driving ahead, and the victim eventually caught up to take a photo of Pickett’s license plate.
As he snapped the photo, the victim alleges that Pickett deliberately brake-checked him, causing his speed to drop from 30 mph to zero, and sending him onto the back of the golf cart with his legs dangling on the ground.
Witness Observes Incident
A nearby resident reportedly witnessed the accident and described seeing “something falling off the back” of the golf cart. Despite the warning, Pickett allegedly continued driving without stopping, according to the police report.
The victim claimed he repeatedly yelled at Pickett to stop, fearing he could be seriously injured or killed, but the driver continued for 50 to 100 yards before the rider fell off.
Driver Claims Fear Led to Actions
When deputies tracked down Pickett, he allegedly told police that he slammed on his brakes because he feared the e-bike rider was approaching at a high rate of speed and might harm him.
Pickett reportedly admitted that the victim held onto the back of the golf cart while yelling for him to stop, but claimed he was too afraid to pull over. He said he eventually drove to his place of employment and did not immediately report the accident, stating he did not know anyone was injured.
Victim Treated for Injuries
The e-bike rider received medical attention at the scene and later went to the hospital after experiencing stomach pain and lingering injuries.
Authorities confirmed that the victim sustained multiple injuries, though the full extent has not been publicly released.
Arrest and Charges
Pickett was arrested on Monday and charged with felony hit-and-run and leaving the scene of a crash involving injury. He was released on bond and is scheduled to appear in court on January 12, 2026.
Officials are urging residents to exercise caution on local roads, particularly in areas where pedestrians and cyclists share the streets with motorized vehicles, including golf carts.
What measures should communities take to protect e-bike riders and pedestrians from reckless drivers?
Have you witnessed a dangerous encounter on local roads? Share your thoughts, safety tips, or experiences in the comments below.
