Motorcycle riders in Louisiana enjoy a relaxing and leisurely form of travel that is different from other vehicles. The trade-off, however, is that they are more exposed to serious injury or even death when involved in a collision.
The operator of a motorcycle was recently killed after being involved in a fatal collision with a pickup in Patterson, Louisiana. The accident between the motorcycle and truck occurred in the morning on Highway 90. The motorcycle was traveling on the highway when he was struck. Authorities are unsure of the cause of the collision at this time. The 30-year-old motorcyclist was taken to a nearby hospital, but died there as a result of his injuries. The 21-year-old driver of the pickup was cited by police for a failure to yield. The accident is currently under investigation by authorities.
Motorcycles are in a unique position when sharing the road with other vehicles. For instance, they have a smaller relative size than other vehicles, making it difficult for drivers to see them in adverse traffic and weather conditions. They are especially difficult to see near intersections, when other drivers are attempting to turn or move their vehicle. Finally, unexpected hazards on the road such as potholes and debris can create a severely dangerous situation for motorcyclists that would have little impact on the driver of a car. As this shows, the negligence of another driver could result in the death of a motorcyclist.
Although the driver of the pickup was cited for failure to yield, authorities are still investigating the circumstances of the collision. It is therefore unclear at this time if either party’s actions were negligent. Statistically, however, in two-thirds of motorcycle accidents another vehicle impeded the right of way of the motorcyclist. Any motorcycle rider injured in an accident with another vehicle may seek the consultation of a personal injury attorney to evaluate the circumstances of their case and assess if they can pursue any compensation as a result of the crash.
Source: katc.com, “Motorcyclist killed in morning crash,” Allison Bourne-Vanneck, May 31, 2014