Motorcyclist Injured in Chico
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that a motorcyclist suffered major injuries in a crash that occurred on the afternoon of Monday, May 3, 2021. The collision between the motorcycle and another vehicle took place are approximately 12:12 p.m. near Highway Motors, Inc., which is located on the 2900 block of Highway 32. It is reported that a silver Ford Fusion, which was being driven by a female driver, did not see the motorcycle and pulled out onto the road, colliding with the black Harley Davison. The impact was so violet it severed the bike in two.
Scene Response on Highway 32
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, where they found the motorcycle, the rider, and the silver Fusion blocking the road. The injured rider was transported to a nearby hospital. The wreckage of the bike was towed away. The Ford Fusion was also towed from the scene, having sustained significant front-end damage.
The accident remains under CHP investigation at this time.
What Causes Motorcycle Accidents?
Not every motorcycle accident is caused by a negligent driver. Sometimes, a collision can occur due to rider carelessness, inexperience, or road debris. Often, however, we hear exactly what the driver of the silver Ford Fusion said following this accident. “I did not see the bike.”
It is the duty of vehicle operators to look out for not only other passenger vehicles, but also motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. We all share the road, and each one of us has a part to play in preventing accidents and making our roads safer.
Start Seeing Motorcycles
The excuse that a driver did not see a motorcycle is getting old. Motorcycles are not invisible. Here are some tips for drivers to help keep the roads and highways safer for all types of commuters:
- Check your blind spots thoroughly before making any lane changes.
- Use extra caution when executing a passing maneuver.
- Stay within your lane.
- Use your turn signal well in advance of lane changes and turning.
- Be on the lookout for lane-splitting bikes. This maneuver is legal in California.
- Be on the lookout for turning motorcycles.
- Before beginning a left-hand turn, take a second look.
- Use extra caution at intersections.
Watch the YouTube video. Below is a clip reminding motorists to look out for motorcycles.
Dangerous Intersections For Motorcycles in Chico
Unfortunately, all roads that host other vehicle traffic present some risk for motorcyclists, including Highway 32. However, due to road conditions or visibility considerations, some streets are more dangerous than others. One potential area of danger was a factor in Monday’s accident in Chico – driveway exits. Further, intersections are some of the most dangerous areas for motorcyclists in every city. Below are some of the intersections with the highest number of accidents in the Chico area:
- West 9th Street and Salem Street
- West 2nd Street and Ivy Street
- West 5th Street and Oak Street
- West 1st Street and Nord Avenue
- East 1st Avenue and Neal Dow Avenue
- East 7th Avenue and Sunset Avenue
Chico Personal Injury Lawyer
Hello, and thank you for visiting our legal blog. My name is Ed Smith, and I have been advocating on behalf of injured Northern Californians as a personal injury lawyer in Chico, California, for more than 38 years. Injuries suffered in a motorcycle accident are often severe. Having a skilled and experienced injury lawyer on your side following such an accident can let you focus your time and energy on healing. For compassionate, free, and friendly legal advice, do not hesitate to give us a call at (530) 392-9400, or, from outside the local area code, at our toll-free number: (800) 404-5400.
To see some of our past case results, visit our settlements and verdicts page. Many of our clients have written reviews at the sites linked below:
Photo: pixabay
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