Deadly Motorcycle Accident in West Lodi
A tragic motorcycle accident took place in west Lodi on June 22, 2019. On Saturday night, a motorcycle rider collided with a vehicle on Lower Sacramento Road just north of West Vine Street. This is a dangerous intersection because the four-lane road is divided by a median strip that has been landscaped. During the nighttime hours, visibility is reduced.
Still Under Investigation
Because the accident is still under investigation, specific details have not yet been released. The first responders arrived on the scene immediately. However, the motorcycle rider was pronounced deceased upon arrival. The biker has been identified by the San Joaquin County Coroner’s office as 21-year-old Skylar Harr of Lodi.
The driver of the other vehicle stayed at the scene. He was not found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The driver is cooperating with law enforcement, and the Major Accident Investigation Team of the Lodi Police Department is still investigating. The police are asking anyone with information to contact them.
Severe Injuries in a Motorcycle Accident
Without the protection of a metal frame, motorcycle riders are in a particularly vulnerable position. According to information that has been published by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycles are more than 27 times more deadly than other vehicles. Several common injuries accompany motorcycle accidents. A few examples include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries: Without a doubt, traumatic brain injuries are one of the most common causes of both morbidity and mortality in a motorcycle collision. Any blow to the head could lead to permanent neurological damage.
- Bone Fractures: When the motorcycle rider strikes the pavement at high speed, bone fractures can occur. They include femur fractures, wrist fractures, and even hip injuries. Some broken bones might be displaced and require emergency surgery.
- Degloving Injuries: Motorcycle accidents are one of the most common causes of a degloving injury. In a degloving injury, a portion of the skin is removed from the tissue underneath. This can happen if the rider slides along with ground without any protective equipment. This is a potentially catastrophic injury that could have long-term consequences.
Watch YouTube Video: How Common are Motorcycle Accidents. The video below provides some statistics on motorcycle-related accidents and deaths.
Common Questions Following a Death in a Motorcycle Collision
A fatal accident is always emotionally devastating, particularly for family and friends of the individual who has passed. The financial stress related to possible medical bills or the loss of the chief income earner could leave families with a terrifying feeling of uncertainty. A wrongful death claim could help families during this difficult time. Some of the common questions include:
- What is a Wrongful Death Claim? A wrongful death claim can help families claim financial payments from parties who are deemed responsible for death through their negligence.
- Who can Claim Wrongful Death Damages? The spouse, registered partner, children, stepchildren, or other dependents of the individual who has passed can claim damages through a wrongful death suit.
- How Quickly Must a Claim be Filed? There is a statute of limitations on these cases in California. Typically, it is two years, but this could change depending on the details of the case.
Lodi Motorcycle Accident Attorney
I’m Ed Smith, a Lodi Motorcycle Accident Lawyer. If you or someone you care about has been seriously injured or killed in a motorcycle accident, please call me for free, friendly advice at (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400.
I am proud to be a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum & of the Top One Percent, which is a National Association of Distinguished Counsel.
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Image Attribution: Pixabay
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