1 Seriously Injured in Orinda Motorcycle Accident on Highway 24 near Saint Stephens Drive
Contra Costa, California (September 30, 2021) – One person was seriously injured in a motorcycle accident in Orinda, Contra Costa, on Thursday evening.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the accident happened on Highway 24 near Saint Stephens Drive at about 4:25 p.m.
A motorcycle was traveling on the roadway when it crashed into a white construction truck in unclear circumstances.
The rider sustained major injuries including bleeding in the brain and injury to the lung. The victim was transported to John Muir Walnut Creek Medical Center.
No additional information about the accident was provided.
An investigation into the accident is ongoing.
Motorcycle Accidents
It is almost impossible to escape injuries in motorcycle accidents. Riders are encouraged to wear helmets and safety gear all the time. Helmets save lives by reducing the severity of head injuries in the event of a collision. Should you be involved in a motorcycle accident, you are encouraged to notify the authorities, who will then issue you a written report of the incident. You are also encouraged to take photos of any injuries you suffer and damages to your motorcycle. Also, remember to keep copies of any medical records and bills and any related expenses.
Some common causes of motorcycle accidents include
- Lane splitting – Lane splitting happens when a motorcycle drives between two lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic. Lane splitting may lead to motorcycle accidents due to: the close proximity of the vehicles to the motorcycle, limited space for the motorcycle to maneuver, the presumption by other motorists that no cars or motorcycles will be passing them in slowed or stopped traffic.
- Unsafe turns – Vehicles making turns usually collide with motorcycles when the bikes are: going straight through an intersection, passing the car, or attempting to pass the vehicle. When these types of accidents happen, the drivers of the involved vehicles may be held accountable for the crash. However, it is good to note that the motorcyclist may also be partly to blame if, for example, they were speeding or riding in the wrong lane.
- Speeding – Riding at high speeds reduces the rider's ability to slow or stop safely in case of a hazard or slowed or stopped traffic. The rider ends up crashing into other cars or loses control of the motorcycle after applying emergency brakes.
Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in California
Motorcycle accidents have the potential to cause catastrophic injuries – most often to the rider of the motorcycle, according to P. Mark Shayani, an experienced motorcycle accident attorney and managing attorney at Pacific Attorney Group.
According to Mark, a separate and independent investigation is very important. “The investigation will help determine the exact cause of the accident. An attorney will conduct background checks, locate witnesses to the accident, as well as review applicable insurance coverage” Mark stated.
