Accidents October 6

Accidents October 6

WATERFORD, CA – A 48-year-old Modesto man tragically died after the motorcycle he was driving crashed Sunday night, October 4, on Highway 132/Yosemite Blvd. near Waterford. His passenger, a 36-year-old Waterford woman, suffered major injuries in the collision.

The CHP received a report of the crash at approximately 8:20 p.m. The initial investigation indicates that the 2017 Harley-Davidson was traveling eastbound on Yosemite Boulevard, somewhat east of Geer Road. Then the motorcycle moved onto the righthand shoulder and began driving at a speed fast enough to be passing vehicles on the road.

According to the CHP, the rider lost control while traveling along the shoulder. The motorcycle crossed into traffic lanes before again leaving the roadway on the north side. Both the driver and passenger were thrown from the motorcycle.

The driver was rushed to a local hospital, where, sadly, he was pronounced dead. The passenger was also taken to a hospital for treatment of serious injuries. Both riders were protected by motorcycle helmets at the time of the crash.

The CHP has not determined whether alcohol or drugs played a role in the collision.

Why Motorcycle Crashes Can Be Especially Dangerous

Motorcycle riders face dangers that occupants of passenger vehicles often do not. A motorcycle provides virtually no protection between a rider and the roadway, another vehicle, or a fixed object. Even when a rider is wearing a helmet and other protective gear, a high-speed crash can result in devastating injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, fractures, and internal injuries.

Speed can make those dangers even greater. Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than passenger vehicles, and riders have far less room for error when traffic, roadway conditions, or another vehicle suddenly changes the situation. When a rider loses control at high speed, there is little surrounding structure to absorb the force of the impact.

This tragic crash is a reminder that motorcycle riders can face extraordinary consequences in collisions, even when they take important safety precautions such as wearing a helmet.

The experienced, compassionate car and motorcycle accident lawyers of AutoAccident.com serve Waterford and Stanislaus County. If you or a loved one were injured in a crash caused by a negligent or reckless driver, know that you’re not alone. AutoAccident.com is one of the most trusted personal injury firms in California, and across the U.S. Our talented legal team is here to help you navigate the legal process, hold at-fault drivers accountable, and fight for the justice you deserve. Call our accident attorneys at (916) 921-6400 for free, friendly legal advice. You can also reach out through our online contact form or toll-free number at (800) 404-5400.

Edward A. Smith

Personal Injury Attorney | Founder, AutoAccident.com

Ed Smith has fought for injury victims in Northern California for over 40 years, securing multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements in complex personal injury cases.

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Bar Admissions:

• State Bar of California
• Sacramento County Bar Association
• Consumer Attorneys of California
• Capital City Trial Lawyers Association
• American Trial Lawyers Association

Credentials:

• J.D., McGeorge School of Law
• B.A., UC Davis — Summa Cum Laude
• 10.0 Avvo Rating
• Member, Million Dollar Forum
• Member, National Association of Distinguished Counsel