Crash victim is doing better, but family still has questions about what exactly happened

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFi) - A moped wreck victim is doing better than expected. The family still has some questions and hope people can learn from a big mistake.

33-year-old Mark Lucas of West Lafayette, remained in Methodist Hospital Tuesday. His family said although he suffered severe injuries to his leg, side, and head during a moped wreck, his prognosis continues to improve.

His wife, Shannon Lucas, said her husband's strength amazes her.

"I've been with him for 10 years,"  Mrs. Lucas said. "I've been saying this all along. He is the strongest person I know. He is the most strong-minded person. If anybody can pull through this, it will be Mark."

On August 4, police responded to a moped crash on State Road 43 near Woods Edge Court. Lucas was found face down and unconscious.

With no eye witnesses, police believe Lucas hit a storm grate, and was thrown off his moped into a guardrail.

Although the family admits they'll never know exactly what happened, they believe it could've been a hit and run.

"The police say he was alone in the accident, and that there were no other cars," Mrs. Lucas said. "But the injuries don't add up to that. The impact and trauma [was a lot]."

"He's dealing with nerve damage in his brain," Lawrence Lucas, the victim's brother, said. "He hit his head so hard he is dealing with nerve damage. I just hope he will be the same person."

Although the family said Lucas improves every day, they know some of his injuries could've been avoided.

"I remember a year ago [the police] were trying to enforce people to wear helmets," Mr. Lucas said. "I was like, 'that's bull, how are they going to tell people how to ride their mopeds?' You really don't care until it hits home."

Mrs. Lucas said her husband rode his moped every day to work, and described him as a careful driver. She says even careful drivers can't escape accidents.

"Definitely wear a helmet," Mrs. Lucas said. "We never thought about it. He was always a careful driver."

The Lucas family said they're thankful for everyone's prayers. They know the recovery process will be long, but they said all that matters is that their husband and brother will be able to come home.