Passenger Killed in Motorcycle Crash
A San Diego woman died in a motorcycle accident in Chula Vista, according to recent reports. The accident took place around 3:30 a.m. on Interstate 5 southbound when the motorcycle drifted off the road for unknown reasons. The driver sustained major injuries and was taken to UCSD Medical Center. The female passenger died at the scene. There were no other vehicles involved in the crash. The reasons for the accident are still unclear, but there is an investigation pending. Initial evidence indicates that the accident was caused by the motorcycle rider traveling at excessive speed on an off ramp.
California Highway Patrol Cites Increase in Motorcycle Crashes
According to the California Highway Patrol, motorcycle fatalities have increased 175 percent in ten years. In 2008, there were 560 reported motorcycle fatalities, compared to nearly half that number in 1998. The increase in fatalities occurred in areas with significant traffic, making it likely that crowded roads are at least partly to blame. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that per mile, motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die than occupants of other vehicles.
Tips for Motorcycle Safety
Motorcycle accidents are often caused by low visibility, poor judgment, distractions and environmental factors. It is very common for motorcyclists to be injured by other drivers. For example, a distracted driver may try to pull into a lane already occupied by a motorcyclist, causing the motorcycle rider to crash. It is important for drivers to watch for cyclists and to double-check blind spots. A motorcyclist should also wear bright colors to aid in visibility.
Poor driver judgment is another issue that frequently leads to motorcycle accidents. Drivers can misjudge speed and ability to maneuver their vehicles, leading to crashes with motorcyclists. It is important to leave a safe distance between vehicles and for motorcyclists to be aware of aggressive drivers or those who do not yield the right of way.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident, call Dan Gilleon in San Diego today. Dan Gilleon has years of experience in helping clients pursue fair compensation for medical expenses, unpaid wages and pain and suffering due to a motorcycle crash.
Dan Gilleon founded his law firm in 2003, and since then has built a reputation of caring about clients and fighting for their rights. Contact Dan Gilleon in San Diego today for a free consultation.
