A Foothill Farms traffic accident occurred on November 16 between a big rig and motorcycle along Elkhorn Boulevard in the nighttime hours. Both the rider and truck driver were reported as injured in the collision. The car wreck will be investigated as to cause and to assign fault by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). It is unknown whether drugs or alcohol consumption was a factor in the crash.
Foothill Farms Traffic Accident Details
The collision happened shortly before 10:00 p.m. at Elkhorn Boulevard southbound just south of Andrea Boulevard between an 18-wheeler food delivery truck, which collided with the motorcycle for unknown reasons. The middle and right-hand lane of Elkhorn Boulevard blocked traffic on the westbound side but did not present a traffic hazard. Emergency medical personnel were called to assess both the truck driver and motorcyclist. However, the condition of the two individuals was not reported. Those involved in the crash were being assisted by good Samaritans, who were also directing traffic when help arrived.
Motorcycle Accident Involving Big Rigs
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that a motorcycle rider who gets into a collision with a big rig is 40 times more likely to die in that accident. Besides being much smaller than a big rig and on a bike that offers little protection in an accident, visibility is a real problem. All 18-wheelers have large blind spots on all sides, particularly on the right. When another vehicle or motorcycle is riding in one of those blind spots, they cannot be seen by the truck driver.
Ways a Motorcycle Rider Can Stay Safe
Since a motorcycle is much more maneuverable than a big rig, it only makes sense that the biker exercise extreme caution when riding near an 18-wheeler. Some of these ways include:
- Keep a safe distance from big rigs. Not only is it difficult for the drivers to see a motorcycle, but the downdraft from a big rig can also cause a motorcyclist to crash.
- Bright colors worn by bikers that might appear visible during the day may be much harder to see after dark. Reflective strips and lights on a motorcycle can make a difference in whether other motorists can see you.
- Take a defensive riding course. The California Highway Patrol offers a motorcycle safety program that starts with basic skills and progresses to emergency maneuvers to avoid a collision.
- Wear protective clothing. Many bikers are tempted to walk out the door in jeans, a jacket and whatever shoes they are wearing. However, this provides little protection in the event of a Foothill Farms traffic accident. A jacket with armor, built-in airbags, heavy boots, and added protection can make a difference in an accident on whether the rider walks away.
- Helmets are mandatory. Motorcycle riders in California are all required to wear a helmet. Passengers are as well. However, it is important that the helmet be one that has been approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation. These helmets have a sticker on the outside and label inside that designates them as the best protection for a motorcycle rider. This helps avoid traumatic brain injuries.
Foothill Farms Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Foothill Farms Personal Injury Lawyer. Involvement in any type of vehicle collision can result in serious injuries, which lead to mounting debt caused by medical bills, time off work and other expenses. When you or your loved one has been injured, I am here to offer you free and friendly advice. I can be reached at (916) 921-6400 from Foothill Farms or through my toll-free number at (800) 404-5400 if you are phoning from elsewhere in Northern California. If you prefer not to call, I have an online contact form located on my website, AutoAccident.com.
For 36 years, I’ve worked hard to defend the rights of the residents of Foothill Farms and other Northern Californians to fair compensation in all types of motor vehicle accidents, cases involving wrongful death and trauma such as brain injuries.
Before phoning an attorney for assistance, it’s a good idea to find out about the law practice. You are welcome to look over my clients’ reviews and information on our prior cases at the following links:
I am a member in good standing at Million Dollar Forum, composed of trial lawyers who have won an award in excess of $1 million for a client through either a verdict or a settlement.
Photo Attribution: Depositphotos_11765047_l-2015
:cd llo bw [cs 766] cv