Stephen Wimmer, 50, was killed in a September 21, 2010 car accident in Glenn County after his 1980 Harley Davidson was struck by a vehicle that was making a left turn at an intersection. According to a report in the Colusa Sun-Herald, Wimmer was riding westbound on County Road 7 near Interstate 5, when he collided with a 2004 Toyota sedan. California Highway Patrol officials say 61-year-old Eila Arbuckle, the driver of the Toyota, was traveling east on the roadway, and made a left turn in front of Wimmer's motorcycle. Wimmer was thrown off the motorcycle and transported to a local hospital where he died shortly after the crash. No citations have been issued or arrests made, pending an official investigation.
I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Stephen Wimmer for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Motorcycle Accidents
According to CHP's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were three fatalities and seven injuries involving motorcycle accidents in Glenn County. Also, countywide, car accidents claimed nine lives and caused 114 injuries during the same year.
Left Turn Law
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver of the Toyota sedan made a left turn in front of the oncoming motorcyclist. California Vehicle Code Section 21801 (a) states: "The driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left or to complete a U-turn upon a highway, or to turn left into public or private property, or an alley, shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching from the opposite direction which are close enough to constitute a hazard at any time during the turning movement, and shall continue to yield the right-of-way to the approaching vehicles until the left turn or U-turn can be made with reasonable safety."
Claim for Compensation
Officials have said that the driver, Arbuckle, was not under the influence at the time. I trust they are also looking into whether this driver was distracted, speeding or otherwise negligent. Families of deceased victims in such cases would be well-advised to consult an experienced California personal injury lawyer, who will analyze all facets of the incident and ensure that the negligent parties are held liable. Where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families could file wrongful death claims seeking compensation for medical and funeral expenses, lost future income, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages.
What are some of the most dangerous roadways for motorcyclists in your city or neighborhood?
The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.
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