Earlier this month, a 50-year-old San Jose resident was killed in an accident on Highway 87 when he was rear-ended as he rode his Suzuki motorcycle. He was declared dead at the scene after being thrown from his bike, and this has San Jose motorcycle accident attorneys extremely concerned.
Heather Baxter was arrested shortly after the crash on suspicion of misdemeanor manslaughter and felony, however she has yet to be charged. There is no indication thus far that drugs or alcohol were involved in the accident, which was first reported to be a one vehicle accident. It was later confirmed that the catastrophe did involve another vehicle.
The California Highway Patrol report states that Baxter was traveling at about 70 mph and was unable to stop her car from plowing into the back of the motorcycle. She has no criminal history, and the accident is quite puzzling to this point.
The majority of motorcycle accidents are caused by motorists who fail to yield the right of way to motorcyclists. Those motorists who drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol or drive in a reckless manner make the roads much more dangerous for those who ride bicycles and motorcycles. Motorists are often negligent when it comes to motorcycles, and feel that the motorcyclist has no rights.
California motorists have little reason to be negligent when it comes to motorcyclists and their rights. With the increasing number of motorcycles on the roads nationwide, people should be getting well accustomed to driving in a safe manner when motorcycles are in the area.
Distracted driving is becoming a problem that not only puts motorcyclists in danger, it puts all motorists at greater risk of accidents and serious injuries. California motorcycle accident lawyers know that distracted driving is a huge safety concern. In fact, at least 30% of accidents that take place each year are due to distractions while driving. There are countless ways a driver can be distracted, including passengers, cell phones, GPS systems and even billboards.
Now, distracted driving will only increase as a new infotainment system rolls out on some cars this year, which according to automakers will only allow internet access when the vehicle is placed in park. However, motorists can still look at 3-D maps and restaurant reviews while driving down the highway, which simply puts all other motorists, including those riding motorcycles, at an increased risk of accidents.
Motorcyclists are often seriously injured in accidents because of the minimum protection they have while riding. Often, the results are catastrophic and may include spinal cord injuries, brain injures, serious trauma and even amputations.
The Reeves Law Group has offices across California and is dedicated to representing personal injury victims, including victims of motorcycle accidents. Please contact us for a free consultation at (800) 644-8000.