Sacramento Motorcycle Crash Reported Along SR 51
A serious motorcycle crash resulting in an injury to the rider occurred on November 1 along State Route 51 and the Arden Way on-ramp in Sacramento shortly before 10:00 in the evening. According to the report by the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the accident occurred when a motorcycle crashed into a vehicle. The accident blocked the fast lane of the road, and the motorcyclist was found lying there. It was reported by an eyewitness that the vehicle was struck by the motorcycle, and then it fled the scene. A tow truck operator at the accident site to pick up the sportbike the cyclist had been riding reported that the rider was trying to find his helmet and said he did not remember being involved in a crash. When and if the passenger vehicle driver is located, they may be charged with hit and run.
Motorcycle Collisions
Motorcycle crashes are somewhat similar to those of passenger vehicles but are different in a number of important ways, which increases their risk of a collision. The following are some of the reasons motorists should use extra caution when they are driving anywhere near a motorcycle rider. Some of the risks faced by motorcycle riders include:
- Road hazards: While a motor vehicle might sustain some damage from a road hazard such as a pothole, it is an injury risk for motorcyclists. Oil spills on the pavement, potholes, gravel, or uneven surfaces can contribute to a motorcycle crash.
- Visibility: Motorcycles are less visible on the roads than passenger vehicles and trucks. A common excuse after a vehicle collides with a motorcycle is, “I didn’t see it.”
- Motorcycles are less stable: Vehicles with two wheels, such as motorcycles and bicycles, can run into problems because of their lack of stability. This is especially true if the rider has to swerve or brake in an emergency.
- Motorcycle riders have no protective barriers: Unlike passengers inside a motor vehicle who are surrounded by metal and have other safety devices, a motorcycle rider is left with little protection against injuries. Motorcycles do not provide a protective metal shield. Neither are they equipped with seat belts.
- Negligent drivers: Motorcyclists are often injured by negligent drivers. Some of the hazards include cars running red lights, turning in front of a motorcyclist, and stopping short.
How a Lawyer Investigates a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle riders have the same rights as others using the roadways, and when negligence was the cause of their accident injuries, they may place a claim for compensation. This is why you need a lawyer experienced in handling motorcycle accidents by your side. The lawyer will send investigators to the crash site immediately to look for evidence to support your claim. This includes interviewing witnesses and checking the police report for accuracy. In addition, video footage can provide strong evidence, so they will be looking for traffic cameras and checking with nearby businesses. Accident reconstruction is used when necessary, and our investigators will look for road evidence such as tire tread marks, which can indicate whether or not the driver tried to stop. Once all the evidence is accumulated, it is handed over to our lawyers, who will use it to build a strong case for personal injury damages. This information can be helpful both in dealing with insurers or in preparing a case to present in civil court.
Hit and Run Accidents
When a person is injured in a hit and run accident, one of their first questions is who will pay for the damages. California insurers are obligated to offer uninsured motorist protection to all drivers. In the event the fleeing driver cannot be located, the driver can use his or her own UIM protection in their insurance policy. Sometimes, this might not be available, and the injured party can use UIM protection held by a family member living with them.
Sacramento Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento motorcycle accident lawyer. Motorcycle riders have the same rights as others along California’s roadways. If you were injured in a motorcycle accident caused by a negligent driver, I have free and friendly advice to offer you. Phone me at (916) 921-6400 or at (800) 404 5400. If it is easier for you, I can also be reached online.
In addition to motorcycle crashes, I handle different types of car accidents, wrongful deaths, traumatic injuries, and other types of negligence cases.
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Photo Attribution: Depositphotos_187948540_l-2015 (17)
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