A motorcyclist who was fatally injured in a Los Angeles car accident the afternoon of March 14, 2010 has been identified as 32-year-old Jason Stark. The San Gabriel Valley Tribune reports that the fatal motorcycle crash occurred on Mt. Baldy Road as Stark was riding his 1999 Ducati and a 1995 Doge Ram made a U-turn in front of him. Stark was pronounced dead at the scene. The truck driver apparently told California Highway Patrol officials that he did not see Stark as he made a U-turn.
I offer my deepest sympathies to everyone who knew and loved this fatal injury accident victim, Jason Stark. It is indeed a tragic and untimely loss for his family and friends. They will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Motorcycle and Car Accidents
According to CHP's Statewide Integrated Traffic Records Systems (SWITRS), there were 114 fatalities and 2,934 injuries as a result of motorcycle accidents in Los Angeles County. Also, countywide, car accidents claimed 667 lives and caused 52,229 injuries in 2008.
Car Accident Law
A majority of car versus motorcycle accidents occur when the other vehicle is making a left turn or U-turn. The driver of the Dodge Ram told officials he "did not see" the motorcycle coming when he attempted the U-turn. This is a commonplace occurrence in these types of accidents. Most drivers do not actively or consciously look for motorcyclists at street intersections and that often leads to tragic accidents, such as this one. In this case, I trust investigators are looking into who had the right-of-way at the time of the collision.
Liability Issues
If the driver of the Dodge Ram is determined to have been distracted, speeding, reckless or otherwise negligent at the time of the collision, he could be held liable for Stark's wrongful death. If a dangerous condition at that intersection caused or contributed to the crash, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining that roadway could also be held liable. Any such claim against a California governmental entity must be filed within six months of the accident or injury. The best Los Angeles personal injury lawyers will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.
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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