Motorcyclist Dead After Crash
A motorcycle crash in Imperial Beach left one rider dead, according to recent reports. Witnesses say that the 35-year-old unnamed victim appeared to be speeding when he crashed into the front passenger door of an SUV as he turned left onto 10th Street from Palm Avenue.
The rider was pronounced dead at the scene and the driver of the SUV suffered minor injuries. Authorities have not yet ruled who was at fault in the accident, as witnesses were unsure whether the motorcycle or the SUV had the right-of-way.
Motorcycles and the Right-of-Way
Motorcycle riders are more likely to be hurt in an accident when they have the right-of-way than drivers of other vehicles. This is for two reasons: first, motorcyclists have less protection that drivers of passenger vehicles; second, other drivers tend to give motorcycle riders less credit on the road and more often violate their rights than they do for drivers of larger vehicles.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, 4,957 people died in motorcycle crashes in 2012. This represents a 7.1 increase over the figures from 2011. In 2012, 93,000 motorcyclists also suffered crash injuries compared to 81,000 in 2011. Motorcyclists are about 25 times more likely to be killed in a crash than the occupants of a motor vehicle and are about five times more likely to be injured.
While it is up to everyone to look out for motorcyclists on the road, many drivers do not. Some have a subtle attitude that motorcycles are inherently dangerous and anyone who rides them is “asking for trouble.” Others simply believe that motorcyclists should not be afforded the same rights on the road as larger vehicles, and fail to yield to these riders when they see them.
Motorcyclists should be aware of this reality and act accordingly. If you ride a motorcycle, always yield to a larger vehicle, even if you have the right-of-way.
What Should I Do If I Am Injured In A Motorcycle Crash?
If you are injured in a motorcycle crash, contact Dan Gilleon in San Diego. Dan Gilleon has many years of experience in dealing with the effects of motorcycle crashes and may be able to help you recover money to pay for your medical expenses, lost wages and other costs. Protect your rights and contact Dan Gilleon to discuss your motorcycle accident case and how you may be able to recover damages for your injuries.
