According to a report from CBS News Sacramento, a motorcyclist was killed in a tragic collision in Manteca. The rider was struck in a collision involving a sport utility vehicle (SUV). Within this article, our Manteca motorcycle accident attorney explains what we know about this crash and provides a more detailed overview of the risk that riders face in California.
Preliminary Investigation: Speed Likely a Factor in Deadly Motorcycle Crash
A 45-year-old Lathrop man was fatally injured in a motorcycle accident on East Yosemite Avenue, Manteca. It is the second deadly motorcycle crash in the nearby area in the last two months. The Manteca Bulletin reports that authorities believe speed played a significant role in the crash. The motorcyclist was observed weaving through traffic at an accelerated pace prior to the collision. The fatal incident occurred when the motorcyclist struck a westbound SUV turning onto Fishback Road. The deadly motorcycle crash is still under a more comprehensive investigation by law enforcement. The name of the victim is still being withheld while family is being notified.
Most Motorcycle Accidents Results in Injuries to the Rider
Motorcyclists are exposed. Even with a properly fitting safety helmet, they have limited safety protection. Unfortunately, an alarming number (the majority) of motorcycle accidents result in rider injuries. Indeed, federal government data shows that approximately 80 percent of these incidents lead to significant physical harm to the motorcyclist. It is a sobering statistic that underscores the inherent risks associated with motorcycling and emphasizes the importance of safety.
Speeding Makes Motorcycle Crashes More Likely and Injuries More Severe
Excessive speed not only increases the likelihood of motorcycle accidents but also intensifies the severity of injuries sustained in such crashes. At higher speeds, riders have less time to react to road hazards or unexpected events, making collisions more probable. Furthermore, the high-impact forces associated with high-speed crashes often lead to more severe, and sometimes catastrophic, injuries. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), in 2019, about 32% of all fatally injured motorcycle drivers were speeding.
Catastrophic Motorcycle Crashes are On the Rise
Unfortunately, fatal and otherwise catastrophic motorcycle accidents are on the rise. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there has been a significant increase in the rate of motorcycle accident deaths nationwide since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The surge highlights the continued risk that motorcyclists face. It is imperative that all motorcyclists in Manteca and elsewhere in California put a strong emphasis on safety.
Set Up a Free Consultation With Our Manteca Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
At Redkey Gordon Law Corp, our Manteca motorcycle accident lawyers are experienced legal advocates for victims and families. If you or your loved one was involved in a serious motorcycle wreck, we are more than ready to help. Our firm has secured millions in compensation for victims. Contact us today to set up your free, no obligation initial legal consultation. We fight for the rights of motorcycle accident victims and their families in Manteca, San Joaquin County, and beyond.