Many people turn to motorcycles for recreation and transportation. However, motorcycle accidents involving more traditional forms of transportation can lead to serious injuries or even death due to the marked differences in size and lack of protection for motorcyclists. Because motorcycles are smaller and more difficult to see, other drivers must remain vigilant to reduce the chances of an accident. Unfortunately, a California man died as a result of an accident, leading to the arrest of four of his friends.
In early October, seven motorcyclists were driving on a California road. Reports indicate that the 24-year-old driver of a pickup truck turned left in front of the motorcyclists. One of the men, a 25-year-old, struck the front of the truck, throwing him off his motorcycle onto the shoulder of the road. Despite efforts of paramedics and other first responders, he died at the scene.
Four of the other motorcyclists were arrested at the scene. Police claim that one was attempting to interfere as paramedics provided medical attention to the now-deceased man. The other three were accused of reckless driving in the events following the accident. The accused claim they were simply reacting to the death of their friend, and the arrests were unnecessary. The accident that resulted in the death of the young man remains under investigation, and it is unclear if the driver of the pickup truck will face charges.
As evidenced by the alleged actions of the victim’s friends, coping with the unexpected, preventable death of a loved one or friend is often difficult. Unfortunately, many people may also suffer from the financial ramifications of their loved one’s death in addition to their grief. Many victims — or their loved ones in the case of a fatality — of motorcycle accidents in California have sought financial relief in a civil court. If it can be proven that the accident was caused by the driver’s negligence, the court could award monetary damages in accordance with state law.
Source: NBC San Diego, “Friends Arrested After Motorcyclist Killed in Fiery Crash“, Andie Adams, Oct. 7, 2014