A candlelight vigil was held for the deceased on April 2, 2010. Clyde Nachand, 67; Stephen Punch, 52; and Daniel L. Butler, 35; were killed at the scene of this horrific motorcycle accident. Veronica Downs-Totonchi, 47, died at the hospital from her traumatic injuries. The five surviving motorcyclists are listed in critical condition, including Phoenix Fire Captain Ernie Lizarraga Harmen, who remains in a coma. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the individuals and families whose lives have been tragically altered in this horrific accident.
What Caused This Motorcycle verse Truck Accident?
On Thursday afternoon on March 25, 2010, 4 motorcyclists died and another 5 motorcyclists were seriously injured after a large dump truck literally ran the group over and hit an SUV that was stopped in front of the group. The motorcyclists were stopped at a red light at an intersection near 27th and Carefree Highway in Phoenix, Arizona when the accident occurred. Witnesses report that the truck driver didn’t slow down but ran over the riders, dragging several riders 50-75 yards.
Michael J. Jakscht, 46, the at-fault driverof the dump truck, was not found to be impaired by any drugs or alcohol. An investigation is ongoing to what had distracted Mr. Jakscht so badly that he failed to notice the stopped traffic. Negligent homicide charges are likely to be filed.
Finding the Best Utah Motorcycle Accident Attorney for Your Needs
The victims and their surviving family members are well advised to speak to an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. It is unclear whether the dump truck was owned and operated by private or government entity. Arizona would have their own statutes on laws regarding the time available for victims and their families to pursue a wrongful death claim or personal injury claim.
If you or a loved one is hurt in a Utah motorcycle accident, the skilled attorneys of the Christensen Law Firm can help you navigate through the difficult legal and insurance processes. While we cannot bring your loved one back, we can ensure that you will have comfort in knowing your rights are being upheld and the wrongdoer is punished for their reckless behavior. You can contact us by calling (801) 506-0800.