Jamie M. Dodge, 49, was killed in a motorcycle accident in Banning the night of July 11, 2010. According to a news report in The Press Enterprise, Dodge was traveling on the 10 Freeway, near Highland Springs Avenue. He was riding a 2002 Harley Davidson when traffic suddenly came to a stop. His motorcycle began to skid and swerve as he attempted to stop. Dodge lost control of the bike, crashed and was thrown onto the pavement. He was not wearing a full-faced helmet.

I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Jamie Dodge for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Motorcycle Accidents

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were no fatalities, but five injuries involving motorcycle accidents in Banning. In Riverside County as a whole, 32 people died and 581 were reported injured during the same year.

Causes and Liability Issues

Based on this news report, it is not clear how Jamie Dodge crashed. There are still several questions here. Was Dodge experienced as a rider? Was there a vehicle defect or mechanical malfunction that led to this accident? Was there a dangerous condition on the roadway, which may have caused or contributed to this accident? I trust officials are looking at these and other factors in order to determine what occurred and why.

If this accident was caused by another driver he or she could be held liable for the wrongful death of Dodge. If an auto product defect caused the crash, then, the auto maker or the manufacturer of the defective product could also be held responsible. If a dangerous or defective roadway is determined, then, the city or governmental agency could be held liable as well.

Families of deceased victims would be well-advised to contact an experienced Riverside personal injury lawyer, who will analyze all aspects of the case and protect their legal rights and best actions. The best personal injury lawyers will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to victims and their families.

What are some tips you would offer drivers to look out for motorcyclists?

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.