OKEECHOBEE — As a local man rode his bike near the post office Wednesday afternoon, he was struck by a car.

James Womble, 60, was headed from his house in Treasure Island to his daughter’s home near Golden Corral. A former runner, Womble recently took up biking as a way to stay in shape after he had to give up running.

Womble was more than halfway into his 6-mile ride when he passed the post office. He was westbound on State Road 70 East when he reached the intersection of State Road 70 and Domer Avenue. Two cars were stopped at the red light on Domer Avenue, so Womble continued across the street. Just as he entered the intersection, one of the vehicles, a small red car, began to turn onto 70, crossing directly in front of Womble and causing him and his bike to hit the car head on. The driver of the car accelerated and disappeared down State Road 70 headed east.

The driver of the second vehicle got out to render aid and asked Womble if he wanted her to call 911, but he refused and after straightening out his handlebars and seat, he got back on his bike to continue his journey.

When he arrived at his daughter’s home, she insisted on calling the police, but Officer Ryan Holroyd told the family there was very little chance the hit and run driver would be found, because there are no cameras in the area. Holroyd said he has personally taken reports on two other bike versus car accidents in that spot in the last few months. At least those drivers had the decency to stop after the accident said Holroyd.

Womble said, "The worst thing about it was that he knew he hit me and just put his foot to the floor and sped out of there."

A visit to the doctor revealed a cracked wrist, multiple bruises and road rash but nothing serious he said. The doctor said it was a very good thing Womble was wearing a helmet or the injuries would have been much worse.

Womble plans to get right back on his bike as soon as his injuries are healed.