Table of Contents - Jump Ahead:
Just before 9 pm on Friday, March 22nd, a crash involving three motorcycles and one vehicle occurred on state Route 78, east of Borrego Springs Road in Borrego Springs, CA. One person died, and at least two others were injured.
Captain Mike Cornette of Cal Fire reported that one person died at the scene. One injured person was taken to a hospital in Palm Springs via helicopter, and the other injured person was taken to Palomar Medical Center in Escondido by ambulance. Four others involved were treated on scene and declined transportation to a hospital.
CHP online logs did not provide any additional details surrounding what occurred leading up to the event, or how it was caused.
An Increase in Fatal Motorcycle Accidents
Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents resulting in death are not uncommon. Over the last decade, deaths from motorcycle accidents have increased by 20% in the US. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), in 2021 California ranked second in the most fatal motorcycle accidents.
When involved in an accident, motorcyclists are at much higher risk for injury or death than passengers in vehicles. This is because motorcyclists have far less protection afforded to them and are more vulnerable as they are not surrounded by a steel frame like a car passenger is.
In some states, motorcyclists are required by law to wear a helmet. Helmets offer extra protection in the event of a crash; however, they do not guarantee injuries will not be severe.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Various factors can contribute to the cause of motorcycle accidents, which often result in devastating circumstances. Understanding the causes is essential for both riders and motorists to safely navigate the roads.
Motorcycle accidents can be caused by a number of factors, including:
- Speeding
- Drunk or drugged driving
- Poor weather conditions
- Poor road conditions
- Distracted driving
- Mechanical problems
Tips For Staying Safe on the Road
Both motorcyclists and motorists play a role in keeping the roads safe and avoiding causing accidents. A few ways you can help to make the roads safer include:
- Minding the speed limit
- Using your mirrors and checking your blind spots before changing lanes
- Driving sober
- Reducing your speed in inclement weather conditions
- Avoiding distractions while driving
- Conducting regular maintenance on your motorcycle or vehicle
What To Do If You Or A Loved One Have Been Injured In A Motorcycle Accident
If you or a loved one have been injured, or you lost a loved one, in a motorcycle accident, you may have legal recourse.
Motorcycle accidents can cause serious injury, leaving you temporarily, or even permanently, disabled. If you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle accident, it is important to reach out to a skilled motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible. “The sooner you begin filing your claim, the better,” says Brett Schreiber, lawyer of Singleton Schreiber, “the processes can take time, and it is easier for your attorney to gather necessary evidence closer to the date of the accident.”
If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident, the right attorney may be able to help you recover compensation for things such as:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost income (past and future)
- Lost earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- And more
If you lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for some of the damages listed above.
In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, taking swift action is crucial to protecting your rights. It is important that you enlist the help of an experienced motorcycle accident attorney for the best chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one have been injured or tragically lost in a motorcycle accident, a skilled attorney can help you build a strong claim and help you understand your rights.
