A 43-year-old man was killed in a Fresno car accident after his motorcycle crashed into a car at a Clovis intersection. The Fresno Bee reports that the accident occurred the evening of April 15, 2010 at the intersection of Peach and Holland avenues. The motorcyclist was southbound on Peach Avenue when he hit a car that was turning north onto Peach from Holland Avenue. The rider was transported to a local hospital where he died. Police said alcohol or drugs do not appear to have been a factor in this fatal collision. The driver of the car was uninjured.

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I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of this motorcyclist for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved this man. They will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Fresno Motorcycle Accidents

There were no fatalities, but three injuries involving motorcycle accidents in Clovis, California, according to California Highway Patrol's 2008 traffic accident statistics. In Fresno County as a whole, motorcycle accidents claimed 14 lives and caused 206 injuries in 2008.

How Motorcycle Accidents Occur

Based on this news report, it is not clear how or why this fatal crash occurred. Officials, based on their preliminary investigations, believe that the motorcyclist may have been speeding. However, it is not clear who had the light at the intersection or who had the right-of-way at the time of the collision. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a majority of motorcycle accident and traffic accidents in general, occur at street intersections. Motorcycle accidents especially occur at intersections because when motorists make a turn, they may not consciously be looking for a motorcyclist. Mostly, drivers only look for larger vehicles such as cars, trucks of SUVs at intersections.

Liability Issues

In this particular case, it would also be important to look into whether the driver of the other vehicle was under the influence, distracted or otherwise negligent. If it is determined that the other driver caused the fatal accident, then he or she could be held liable for the accident and the wrongful death of the motorist.

If there was a dangerous condition at this intersection, which may have caused or contributed to this accident, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining this roadway could also be held liable. Please remember that any personal injury or wrongful death claim against a California governmental entity must be filed within 180 days of the accident or injury. The best Fresno personal injury lawyers will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive claim evaluation to injured victims and their families.

What are some of the steps you take when you are driving, to look for motorcyclists on the roadway?

None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.