Fatal Accident Occurs on Lopes Road
A Benicia man who died in a solo motorcycle crash recently has been identified as 69-year-old Harold Bray, Jr. The accident occurred as the motorcycle rider headed south along Lopes Road close to the intersection with Marshview Road. While making a left turn, the report issued by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) said the rider was ejected from his bike.
Authorities Seek Information on Fatal Motorcycle Crash
Emergency responders with the Benicia Fire Department were at the accident scene at about 7:30 p.m., where the motorcyclist was discovered to have perished in the collision. Investigators with the CHP are attempting to determine what caused the fatal crash, and those with any information are asked to call Officer James Jacobson at (707) 639-5600.
Wrongful Death in a Motorcycle Crash
Those who know motorcyclists realize they understand their vehicles are more dangerous than passenger cars, and they handle them accordingly. However, there are times when a rider simply cannot avoid being involved in a motorcycle accident, and severe injuries and fatalities are common. Some of the reasons these accidents occur that are out of the control of the rider are:
- Roadway defects: Motorcyclists can be killed in accidents caused by road maintenance issues. As motorcycles are only equipped with two wheels, they are highly vulnerable to objects on the road, cracks in the pavement, or spills. While the government entity responsible for maintenance can be held financially liable, the time limit for filing a lawsuit is only six months. To achieve the best possible result, it can be a good idea to hire an injury lawyer to handle the claim and negotiations.
- Motorcycle defects: The brakes or throttle of the motorcycle could malfunction, causing a crash. Defective tires may also be to blame. After a fatal motorcycle crash, it is necessary to keep the bike, so it can be inspected for defects. In the event of a product defect being found, the manufacturer could be held liable.
- Often, fatal motorcycle accidents are caused by hit-and-runs or aggressive drivers. A crash involving a motorcyclist, whether it is an accident or an intentional collision, can result in the rider’s death. Aggressive drivers need not even collide with the rider in order to cause a motorcycle collision. By tailgating them or forcing them off the road, they can cause the rider to die. A personal injury lawyer can investigate a motorcycle crash to determine if another party was at fault by performing accident reconstruction, interviewing witnesses, inspecting road and bike damage, and reviewing area surveillance footage.
Filing Claims for Wrongful Death
A family’s life is made more difficult when they lose a loved one. Loss, grief and an inability to comprehend what happened can overwhelm them. When funeral arrangements are being made, they realize not only that someone they love passed away, but they may also be facing financial difficulties. By filing a wrongful death claim, the family can not only recover compensation that can help them in the future, but the at-fault party will also be held accountable. Family members can feel closure and justice after this, and it can help them move forward from their loss.
Benicia Wrongful Death Lawyer
I am Ed Smith, a Benicia wrongful death lawyer. When a loved one dies in an accident that wasn’t their fault, the family may wish to find out whether they can file a wrongful death claim. You are welcome to contact us for our free and friendly advice at (707) 564-1900 or (800) 404-5400. An online form to contact us is available also.
Our injury lawyers have helped many people over the years, as you can see below:
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Photo attribution: Image by Myriams-Fotos from Pixabay
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