An off-duty Alhambra police officer sustained injuries in a motorcycle accident after he crashed into a big-rig on the 605 Freeway in Whittier. According to a news report in the Pasadena Star-News, the officer was riding a Honda CBR 1000 up the on ramp at Whittier Boulevard the morning of July 1, 2010, when he struck the semi truck and trailer. The motorcyclist was airlifted to a local hospital for treatment of his injuries. California Highway Patrol officials said no other injuries were reported.

My heart goes out to this injured motorcyclist. I hope he did not sustain any catastrophic injuries. Officials say the motorcyclist was initially unconscious at the scene, but later regained consciousness. I wish him the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. He will certainly be in my prayers.

Motorcycle Accidents

According to CHP's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were no fatalities, but 19 injuries involving motorcycle accidents in Whittier. In Los Angeles County as a whole, 114 people died and 2,934 were injured as a result of motorcycle accidents during the same year.

What Caused this Accident?

Based on this news report, it is not really clear how or why this truck accident occurred. There are several questions here. How fast was the motorcyclist traveling? What was the speed at which the truck was traveling? Did the truck come to a sudden stop or change lanes? Were there any other vehicles involved in this accident? I trust officials are looking into these and other factors in order to determine how or why this accident occurred.

Liability Issues

If the truck driver is determined to have been at fault, he and his employer could be held responsible for the injuries caused to this off-duty police officer. In such cases, it would be in the best interests of injured victims to contact an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer, who will stay abreast of the official investigation and make sure that their legal rights are protected. Injured victims could seek compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of earnings, hospitalization, surgery and rehabilitation costs. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free and comprehensive consultation to injured victims and their families.

What safe driving tips would you offer to motorcycle riders?

We are 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 a reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons named in this article and their family members.