Personal Injury Lawyer Report » Motorcycle Accident

Police Officer Injured in Motorcycle Accident

Ron — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 23:47:11 +0000

A Sacramento police officer sustained injuries in a motorcycle accident the morning of July 26, 2010 after he went over some debris on the roadway. According to a report in The Sacramento City News, the injury crash occurred at the intersection of Third Street and Richards Boulevard when the officer was riding his motorcycle northbound on Third Street. As he made a turn on to Richards, his motorcycle slid on the debris and crashed. The officer sustained injuries, which were not life-threatening.

It is indeed fortunate that this police officer was not seriously injured. I pray for his quick and full recovery.

Roadway Debris Accidents

Unfortunately, freeway debris is a common sight on California’s freeways. The California State Department of Transportation (Caltrans) estimates that 140,000 cubic yards of debris is dumped on California’s roadways each year. Highway debris has caused 155 California car accident deaths between 2006 and 2008. In California, a motorist can be fined for dropping anything other than live bird feathers or water from their vehicles onto a roadway. In addition to fines, they can be held civilly and criminally responsible for the consequences of that debris on our roadways.

Liability Issues

When the person responsible for dumping debris onto a roadway that caused an accident, is found they may be held criminally and civilly liable for their actions. Based on this news report, it is not clear what exactly the motorcycle struck and who dropped that debris on the roadway. Injured victims in such cases would be well-advised to contact an experienced Sacramento personal injury lawyer, who will inform them about how their car insurance policy applies to a roadway debris case. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive claim evaluation to injured victims and their families.

What are the most common types of debris that you come across on the roadway?

None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.

Police Officer Injured in Motorcycle Accident is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyer Report

Fatal San Bernardino Motorcycle Accident

Lorraine — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 23:42:59 +0000

A motorcycle accident in Rialto proved fatal for 61-year-old Carl Jensen the afternoon of July 23, 2010. According to a news report in The Press-Enterprise, the fatal car versus motorcycle collision occurred at the intersection of Agua Mansa Road and Enterprise Drive. Jensen was westbound on Agua Mansa when the driver of a 1997 Buick Park Avenue Sedan turned left in front of him. Jensen was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. Officials are investigating the incident.

My heartfelt sympathies go to everyone who knew and loved Carl Jensen for their devastating loss. They will be in my prayers.

Car Accidents

Nine deaths and 309 injuries were reported due to car accidents in Rialto in 2008, according to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). Also, in San Bernardino County, during the same year, 263 people died and 8,504 were injured as a result of car accidents.

Left Turn Law

California law requires drivers making a left or U-turn on a highway to yield right-of-way to all vehicles approaching from the opposite direction that are close enough to create a hazard during the turning movement. Motorists are required to yield right-of-way to approaching vehicles unless it is reasonably safe for them to make the turn (California Vehicle Code section 21801).

In this particular case, it is not clear whether the driver of the Buick failed to yield right-of-way to the approaching motorcycle. A large portion of motorcycle accidents occur at street intersections and they tend to occur when the other vehicle is turning left. Drivers often tend to look for larger vehicles such as cars, trucks or SUVs at intersections and fail to see approaching motorcycles, bicycles or even pedestrians, which can result in such deadly street intersection collisions.

Claim for Compensation

An experienced San Bernardino personal injury lawyer will be able to help victims and their families make a determination about fault and liability in such cases. Where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased victims can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation to cover medical or funeral expenses, lost future earnings, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages.

What are some of the most dangerous roadways or intersections for motorcyclists in your city or neighborhood?

Fatal San Bernardino Motorcycle Accident is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyer Report

Man Killed in Oakland Motorcycle Accident

Lorraine — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 22:46:15 +0000

A motorcycle accident in Oakland proved fatal for a 40-year-old man the afternoon of July 4, 2010. The Contra Costa Times reports that the fatal crash occurred at the intersection of West Grand Avenue and Magnolia Street. Another car driven by a 31-year-old man was attempting a left turn at the intersection when the car and the motorcycle collided. The motorcyclist was fatally injured. Officials are still looking into what caused this collision.

My heartfelt sympathies go out to everyone who knew and loved this man. I send out my thoughts and prayers to his grieving family.

Car Accident Statistics

There were 34 deaths and 2,411 injuries involving car accidents in Oakland. In Alameda County, 82 people died and 6,935 were injured as a result of car accidents during the same year.

Laws and Liability Issues

According to California Vehicle Code Section 21801 (a): "The driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left or to complete a U-turn upon a highway, or to turn left into public or private property, or an alley, shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching from the opposite direction which are close enough to constitute a hazard at any time during the turning movement, and shall continue to yield the right-of-way to the approaching vehicles until the left turn or U-turn can be made with reasonable safety."

If it is determined that the driver of the other vehicle was at fault, then he could be held liable for the motorcyclist's wrongful death. If there was a dangerous condition at the intersection which caused the fatal crash, then the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining this roadway could also be held liable. Please remember that any personal injury or wrongful death claim against a public entity must be properly filed within 180 days of the incident. The best San Francisco personal injury lawyers will always provide a free consultation and comprehensive evaluation to injured victims or their families.

What are some of the most dangerous roadways for motorcyclists in your city or neighborhood?

Man Killed in Oakland Motorcycle Accident is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyer Report

Man Killed in San Diego Motorcycle Accident

Lorraine — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 23:34:21 +0000

A barbecue that was dropped on the roadway by a vehicle caused a fatal San Diego car accident the morning of June 15, 2010, killing David Jensen, 49, and injuring his wife, Bernardine Jensen, 52. The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that the Jensens were on a Harley Davidson in the fast lane of the 15 Freeway when the motorcycle struck the barbecue that had fallen off another vehicle. Jensen was thrown off his motorcycle and struck by a Toyota. His wife suffered fractures and other injuries while Jensen was pronounced dead at the scene. An investigation is ongoing.

My heart goes out to everybody who knew and loved David Jensen for their devastating loss. Please keep Bernadine Jensen in your prayers.

Roadway Debris Accidents

Freeway debris is a common cause of deadly accidents on California's freeways. The California State Department of Transportation estimates that 140,000 cubic yards of debris is dumped on California's roadways each year. In California, roadway debris has caused 155 traffic accident deaths between 2006 and 2008.

Laws and Liability Issues

Based on this news report, it appears that the driver who dropped the barbecue on the roadway and did not stop, must be held accountable for this fatal motorcycle accident. California law prohibits anyone from throwing or dumping matter on the highway. California Vehicle Code section 23112 (a) states: "No person shall throw or deposit, nor shall the registered owner or the driver, if such owner is not then present in the vehicle, aid or abet in the throwing or depositing upon any highway any bottle, can, garbage, glass, nail, offal, paper, wire, any substance likely to injure or damage traffic using the highway, or any noisome, nauseous, or offensive matter of any kind."

In cases where car accidents are caused by debris on the freeway, the person or entity that was responsible for dropping the items on the roadway can be held financially responsible for personal injuries or wrongful death caused as a result. Knowledgeable San Diego personal injury lawyers will be able to advise victims or their families about how their car insurance policy would apply to a roadway debris accident.

Have you encountered debris on the roadway? Please share your experiences with us.

Man Killed in San Diego Motorcycle Accident is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyer Report

Motorcyclist Severely Injured in Merced Car Accident

Ron — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 23:28:09 +0000

A motorcycle accident in the Merced area left 53-year-old Wallace Dunn with major injuries the afternoon of May 27, 2010. The Merced Sun Star reports that the accident occurred when a car made a left turn in front of Dunn's motorcycle. Dunn was going west on Highway 140 when a 1999 Ford Mustang driven by 24-year-old Teresa Ledesma turned left into a private driveway in front of him. Dunn was taken to an area medical center with severe injuries.

My heart goes out to Dunn and his family. I hope his injuries were not catastrophic and pray that he recovers quickly and completely.

Car Accidents in Merced

There were six deaths and 399 injuries involving car accidents in Merced, according to California Highway Patrol's 2008 traffic accident statistics. In Merced County as a whole, 51 people died and 1,166 were injured as a result of car accidents during the same year.

Left Turn Laws

California law is very specific when it comes to vehicles making left or U-turns. California Vehicle Code section 21801 (a) states: "The driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left or to complete a U-turn upon a highway, or to turn left into public or private property, or an alley, shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching from the opposite direction which are close enough to constitute a hazard at any time during the turning movement, and shall continue to yield the right-of-way to the approaching vehicles until the left turn or U-turn can be made with reasonable safety."

Liability Issues

In this particular case, it is not clear why Ledesma turned in front of the motorcycle. Was she impaired, distracted or otherwise negligent? If Ledesma is determined to have caused this accident, then she could be held liable for Dunn's injuries and damages including medical expenses, loss of wages and cost of hospitalization. The best California personal injury lawyers will always offer a free and comprehensive consultation to injured victims and their families.

What are some of the precautions motorists can take at intersections to avoid collisions with motorcyclists or other oncoming vehicles?

Motorcyclist Severely Injured in Merced Car Accident is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyer Report

Fatal Westminster Motorcycle Crash

Ron — Mon, 10 May 2010 23:12:53 +0000

Officials have identified a 20-year-old motorcyclist killed in a truck accident in Westminster as Nicholas Joseph Knoth. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the fatal motorcycle versus big rig collision occurred on Edwards Street near Homer Street, when Knoth lost control of the motorcycle and moved in front of the truck. He was then run over by the 18-wheeler. Westminster police suspect that Knoth may have been cut off by another vehicle causing him to lose control and ride into the path of the large truck. They are looking for eyewitnesses.

My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved Knoth for their tragic and devastating loss. I hope his family gets answers and a sense of closure in this case. They will certainly be in my prayers.

Orange County Accidents

There were 35 fatalities and 801 injuries involving motorcycle accidents in Orange County in 2008, according to California Highway Patrol's Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). Also, countywide, car accidents claimed 152 lives and injured 13,414 people during the same year.

Causes and Liability Issues

I trust officials are thoroughly investigating who or what caused this fatal crash. If another vehicle or driver was involved, this could be treated as a non-contact hit-and-run. For example, if another driver cut him off or caused Knoth to crash and then fled the scene, he or she could be charged with a felony hit-and-run. Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious crime under California Vehicle Code section 20001 (a).

In such cases where negligence or wrongdoing may be involved, it is in the best interests of families to contact an experienced California personal injury lawyer who will advise them about their legal rights and options. A knowledgeable accident lawyer will also be able to determine whether other factors such as vehicle defects, mechanical malfunctions or a dangerous roadway condition could have caused or contributed to the crash.

What tips would you offer to motorcycle riders for being safe on the road?

Fatal Westminster Motorcycle Crash is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyer Report

Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Kills Man

Lorraine — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 23:41:30 +0000

A 37-year-old man who was killed in a Los Angeles car accident after his motorcycle was struck by a vehicle on the 210 Freeway, has been identified as Lincoln Juarez. The San Gabriel Valley Tribune reports that the fatal collision occurred the morning of April 10, 2010 in the eastbound lanes of the freeway, near Fruit Street, in La Verne. Juarez was ejected from his 2008 Harley Davidson following the collision with a 2006 Jeep Cherokee. Juarez was pronounced dead at the scene. The Jeep was being driven by a 19-year-old man. California Highway Patrol officials are in the process of determining whether one the motorists involved here had made an unsafe lane change.

I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Lincoln Juarez for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. They will be in my prayers..

Motorcycle Accidents

According to CHP's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were no fatalities, but two injuries involving motorcycle accidents in La Verne. In Los Angeles County as a whole, motorcycle accidents claimed 114 lives and injured 2,934 during the same year.

Fault and Liability

Based on this news report, it appears that one of the vehicles – either the motorcycle or the Jeep – may have made an "unsafe lane change." California Vehicle Code section 21658 (a) states that whenever a roadway has been divided into two or more clearly marked lanes for traffic in one direction the vehicle "shall be driven as nearly as practical entirely within a single lane and shall not be moved from the lane until such movement can be made with reasonable safety."

If Juarez caused the accident, then the driver of the Jeep can file a personal injury claim against Juarez's estate or his insurance. But if the Jeep's driver is determined to have caused this accident, then he could be held liable for Juarez's wrongful death. Families of deceased victims in such cases would be well-advised to seek the counsel of an experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney, who will advise them about their legal rights and options.

What tips would you give to motorists to be more conscious of motorcyclists on the road?

Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Kills Man is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyer Report

Los Angeles Car Accident Injures Motorcyclist

Ron — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 23:24:43 +0000

A 26-year old man sustained injuries in a Los Angeles car accident after his motorcycle struck a pickup truck on a local freeway. The San Gabriel Valley Tribune reports that the injury collision occurred the afternoon of March 22, 2010 in the northbound lanes of the 605 Freeway. The motorcyclist was in the fast lane, right behind the pickup, when traffic slowed and the rider rear-ended the truck. He was thrown off his motorcycle and landed on the freeway. However, his injuries were not life-threatening.

My heart goes out to this motorcycle accident victim who has been injured. I hope and pray that he has a quick and complete recovery.

Motorcycle Accidents

There were no fatalities, but 13 injuries occurred in Irwindale involving motorcycle accidents, according to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). Countywide, motorcycle accidents claimed 114 lives and caused 2,934 injuries in 2008.

Fault and Liability

This news report does not state how or why this motorcycle accident occurred. We do not know at what speed the motorcyclist was traveling or why he was not able to stop in time to avoid a rear-end collision. Did the pickup truck stop suddenly? If the crash was the pickup truck driver's fault, then he or she could be held liable for the accident and resulting injuries. In such cases, victims could seek compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of earnings, cost of hospitalization, physical therapy and continued treatment, if that becomes necessary.

Victims who have been injured in such accidents would be well-advised to contact a reputed Los Angeles personal injury lawyer who will stay on top of the official investigation and make sure that the victims' legal rights are protected. If this accident was caused by a dangerous or defective roadway, the governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway could also be held liable. Such claims against governmental agencies in California must be filed within 180 days of the accident or injury.

Los Angeles Car Accident Injures Motorcyclist is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyer Report

Los Angeles Car Accident Kills Motorcyclist

Ron — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:33:13 +0000

A man who sustained fatal injuries in a Los Angeles motorcycle accident has been identified as 47-year-old Martin E. Simon. The Santa Clarita Signal reports that the fatal crash occurred the morning of March 7, 2010 after Simon lost control of his 2006 Suzuki motorcycle as he rode north on Bouquet Canyon Road. Simon and his bike then went into opposing traffic lanes. Douglas Ross, a 46-year-old driver in a Nissan Sentra, was in the southbound lane and could not avoid hitting the motorcyclist. The Sentra ran over Simon's lower legs. Simon's injuries were fatal. Ross was uninjured.

I offer my deepest condolences to everybody who knew and loved Simon. They will certainly be in my thoughts and prayers.

Motorcycle Accidents

There were five fatalities and 44 injuries involving motorcycle accidents in Santa Clarita, according to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). Countywide, 114 people died and 2,934 were injured as a result of motorcycle accidents during the same year.

What Caused this Accident?

This news report does not clearly show how or why this motorcycle accident occurred. We do not know why Simon lost control of his Suzuki motorcycle. It is possible that there was a vehicle defect or mechanical malfunction in the motorcycle which led to the fatal crash. There may have also been a dangerous condition on the roadway or debris on the roadway, which caused the crash.

In such cases, victims' families would be well-advised to seek the counsel of a reputed Los Angeles personal injury lawyer who will analyze all facets of the accident and make sure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. If a vehicle defect is suspected, the vehicle must be preserved carefully in its current, damaged condition, unaltered, so it can be carefully examined by an expert for evidence of product defects or malfunctions. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free and comprehensive consultation to injured victims and their families.

We are not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free confidential consultation to "not a fault" persons named in this article and their family members.

Los Angeles Car Accident Kills Motorcyclist is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyer Report

Motorcyclist Fatally Injured in Fresno Car Accident

Lorraine — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 23:39:17 +0000

A 66-year-old man sustained fatal injuries in a Fresno car accident after he lost control of his motorcycle and collided into another vehicle. The Fresno Bee reports that the March 3, 2010 accident occurred when the motorcyclist was riding on Trimmer Springs Road near Pine Flat Road. The 2009 Harley-Davidson motorcycle went into the path of a westbound 1996 Ford Taurus driven by 54-year-old Susan Adams. The man was thrown off his motorcycle and sustained critical injuries. He was taken to a local hospital where he died. Adams was not injured. According to California Highway Patrol officials, drugs or alcohol was not a factor in this crash.

I offer my heartfelt sympathies to everyone who knew and loved this man for their devastating loss. They will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Accident Statistics

There were five fatalities and 71 injuries involving motorcycle accidents in Fresno County According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records Systems (SWITRS). Also, countywide, car accidents claimed 127 lives and injured 3,323 people during the same year.

Causes and Liability Issues

In this particular case, it is not quite clear how or why the motorcyclist lost control. Apparently, intoxicants were not a factor. The article also does not mention speed or reckless driving as issues. So why did the motorcyclist lose control? Was there a vehicle defect or a mechanical problem in his Harley Davidson? Was there a dangerous condition on that roadway that caused this tragic accident?

In such cases, it would also be a good idea to preserve the motorcycle in its crashed condition, in tact, so it can be carefully examined by an expert for vehicle defects, mechanical malfunctions and other evidence. If the accident was caused by a vehicle defect, the manufacturer of the defective product could be held liable. Experienced Fresno personal injury lawyers who have successfully handled motorcycle accident cases as well as auto product defect cases, will be able to advise victims' families in such cases about their legal rights and options.

Motorcyclist Fatally Injured in Fresno Car Accident is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyer Report