Motorcycle Trip Turns Deadly for Utah Resident
A Utah woman was killed when she was thrown off the motorcycle during an accident in Lucerne Valley, California. The victim, whose name has yet to be released, was part of a group of six motorcyclists that were enjoying a motorcycle tour through sunny California. The group was forced to come to an immediate standstill when a car suddenly stopped in front of them. While all riders managed to stop and avoid impact with the motor vehicle, the driver of the motorcycle and the deceased were both ejected from the bike. The California Highway Patrol confirmed that the deceased’s helmet was not securely fastened and had actually come off her head when she was thrown off the motorcycle. The victim hit her head on the pavement. She died on the scene of the accident from massive head trauma. An investigation is ongoing to what caused the car to stop so quickly and whether or not the motorcyclists were following too closely.
My deepest sympathies go to the family and friends of the deceased woman and the injured motorcyclist for their devastating loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to them during this difficult time. We also hope that the injured bike rider will make a quick and full recovery.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics
According to the Traffic Safety Facts of 2008 compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
- 5,290 motorcyclists were killed
- An estimated 1,829 motorcyclists’ lives were saved from motorcycle helmet use
- 823 more lives could have been saved if the motorcyclist wore a helmet
- 96,000 motorcyclists were injured
Liability Issues
If the driver the motor vehicle stopped due to distracted or impaired driving, then he or she should be held at-fault for this tragic accident. If I were a member if the victim’s family, I’d also want to know whether the there was a dangerous condition on this roadway, which may have caused or contributed to this accident. The city or governmental agency responsible for its maintenance could very much be held liable. Right now, it does look like the motorcyclist is at fault for the death of this Utah woman. Whether the motorcyclist was speeding, distracted or negligent in not keeping a safe distance between himself and the vehicle has yet to be investigated. The family members of the deceased victim do have the right to file a wrongful death claim. Please remember that there is time sensitive evidence to be recorded in this fatal motorcycle accident. Reputable personal injury lawyers will offer a free consultation to walk the victim’s family through their legal options.
Please feel free to contact attorneys Ken Christensen or Russ Hymas from the Christensen Law Firm, PLLC, at 801.506.0800, to set up a free NO obligation consultation.