Motorcyclist Killed After Driver Failed To Give Right of Way

On the morning of Tuesday, January 14th, 2020, a 21-year-old male motorcyclist was tragically struck in an accident after another vehicle failed to give the man the right of way.  

Details About the Incident

According to the Harlingen Police Department, the accident occurred at approximately 7:45 a.m. between 77 Sunshine Strip and Monroe Avenue. The negligent driver of the vehicle was heading southbound, preparing to go into the turning lane to get inside of a restaurant parking lot. 

As he was turning, he cut off the motorcyclist, who had the right of way, and ultimately caused the young man to slam right into the vehicle. 

The 21-year-old victim was rushed into the hospital but eventually passed away soon after. Harlingen PD cited the driver for failure to yield and are still currently investigating the accident.

Motorcycle Accidents By The Numbers

When involved in a serious accident, a motorcyclist tends to suffer far more serious injuries and fatalities over a driver of a larger and enclosed vehicle. And while there are more cars on the road than motorcyclists, the following statistics are just as alarming and should be taken into consideration when sharing the road with them:

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2017:

• There were 5,172 reported motorcyclists killed

• Motorcyclist fatalities happened 27 times more frequently over a passenger car occupant fatality in traffic crashes and accounted for a total of 14 percent in overall traffic fatalities.
• Additionally, 42 percent of all motorcycle accidents involved the other vehicle making a left turn at the same time the motorcyclist was headed towards a straight direction or attempting to pass. 

Things To Keep In Mind When Riding On The Road

The following are some crucial things to keep in mind when riding a motorcycle in Texas roadways:

• Wear the necessary protective gear, especially a helmet: Wearing the right gear can ultimately save your life one day. This includes protecting your arms, legs, and feet with a jacket or long-sleeved shirt, gloves, pants, and boots while wearing the right helmet.
• Make yourself visible and be attentive to your surroundings: It is critical to make yourself physically visible to everyone you are sharing the road with. Reflective vests and riding equipment can do the job–especially at night–but also staying out of blind spots carries just as much weight.\
• Follow all laws and regulations, as well as responsibly: In order to avoid a tragic accident, all responsible motorcyclists follow all appropriate speed limits, traffic lights, and lane markings. Being a responsible rider also means avoiding any potential distractions while operating their bike by refraining from drinking alcohol, using any other controlled substance, or using a cell phone while operating the vehicle.

Seek Civil Justice In The Event Of A Tragic Loss

If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident–or lost someone who has–because of a negligent driver, do not hesitate to contact the Brownsville car accident attorneys of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys as soon as possible.

We will fight to make sure all your physical and traumatic damages will be rightfully compensated so that you and your family can focus on recovering.

Contact J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys at 956.630.6700, or visit us at any of our McAllen, Brownsville, or Rio Grande City locations for a FREE, no-obligation case evaluation now.

Source: Valley Central