Oroville Motorcycle Fatality
A fatal motorcycle accident occurred over the Labor Day Weekend in Oroville, California. The deadly crash, which occurred at approximately 8:40 p.m. on Sunday evening, September 5, 2021, on Oro Dam Boulevard, is being investigated by the Oroville Police Department.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The crash involved a motorcycle and a car and happened near Lincoln Boulevard on Oro Dam Boulevard. According to police sources, the motorcycle was traveling east on Oro Dam Boulevard when the car pulled out in front of it, making a collision unavoidable.
The motorcycle rider, a 41-year-old man from Concow, California, was killed due to the impact. He has subsequently been identified by the Butte County Sheriff’s Office as Bradley Bell. The passenger on the motorcycle suffered injuries and was transported to the hospital.
Motorcycle Invisibility
Unfortunately, this type of motorcycle accident is not uncommon. Motorcycles are less visible than larger vehicles and are often overlooked when a motorist is checking for traffic before making a move.
According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), close to 5,000 motorcyclists were killed on American roads in 2015. Some of those fatalities occurred in single-vehicle accidents, but many involved other vehicles.
Responsibility of Other Motorists
Operators of passenger vehicles – trucks, vans, cars, and SUVs – are required to share the roads. Motorists, who have much more external protection than a vulnerable motorcyclist, should also take extra caution to keep riders who travel in their proximity safe. In recent years, the number of motorcycles out on the roads has been increasing. This may be due to increased traffic volumes in urban areas or a desire to avoid high gas prices. In any event, that means it is even more important to keep a lookout for riders. Many of those additional riders may lack experience, and therefore be more likely to make mistakes that can lead to accidents.
Although in some instances of car versus motorcycle accidents, the rider is at fault, such accidents are often caused by negligent actions performed by the motorist. Motorists must remain aware at all times that a motorcycle may be encountered. In addition to maintaining constant awareness, there are several other things a driver can do to help keep the roads safe for motorcyclists:
- Always check your vehicle’s blind spots.
- Use extra caution when making passing maneuvers.
- Keep in mind that motorcycles react to situations more quickly than cars.
- Bad weather and riding at night can be especially treacherous for motorcyclists – use even more care.
- Stay within your lane.
- Always signal for motorcyclists indicating your intention to make a turn.
- Intersections are dangerous – watch for turning motorcycles and take a second look before you make a left turn.
Watch the YouTube video. The clip below is a public service message urging motorists to take a second look around for motorcyclists.
Oroville Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, an Oroville motorcycle accident lawyer. A serious motorcycle crash can leave the rider and his or her family in financial trouble. Rising medical bills coupled with income loss can present a dire situation. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident that was caused by a negligent motorist, reach out to the compassionate and experienced injury lawyers at our firm. We can set up a no-obligation consultation to go over the details of your potential case, or we can simply offer free and friendly legal advice. Our local phone number is (530) 392-9400, and we provide a toll-free line for those calling from other Northern California regions: (800) 404-5400. If you prefer to reach out electronically, send your inquiry via our online contact form.
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Photo: Pixabay
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