Isleton Resident Killed in Head-On Collision
A motorcyclist died on July 24 following a head-on collision with a tractor-trailer in the southern part of Sacramento County. The accident happened on eastbound Highway 12 close to Brannon Island Road at about 1:42 in the afternoon, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The incident is being investigated by the CHP to discover what led to the fatal accident.
Additional Details of the Accident
The CHP reported that an Isleton man, age 63, was riding along when his motorcycle weaved slowly into another lane and crashed into the tractor-trailer. They do not believe the man was impaired. However, he reportedly did not try to brake in time to avoid the collision. No information was released on whether the driver of the tractor-trailer was injured.
Losing a Loved One Unexpectedly
No one is ready for the loss of a loved one, but when it happens unexpectedly, the grief is compounded by many other emotions. Suddenly, the family’s life is disrupted in the worst possible way. In order to lessen their grief and help the family cope with this tragedy, there are things you can do:
- Call or visit as soon as possible. Let the family know you are there for them.
- Let the family members control the conversation. They will have things they need to explore.
- Offer to do tasks around the home, such as straightening up, walking the dog, or picking up groceries.
- Bring an easily warmed up meal to the family home. Make sure to find out if there are certain foods they are unable to eat.
- Offer to take them to the funeral parlor for end-of-life arrangements. This is a very difficult undertaking.
- Once the funeral and burial are done, continue to show your support.
Why a Head-On Collision Occurs
A head-on collision is one of the most dangerous types of traffic accidents. This is because both vehicles are traveling at a higher rate of speed when the impact occurs. Even if the vehicles are only traveling at about 25 mph, they strike each other at 50 mph. Some of the reasons a head-on collision happens are:
- Driving while intoxicated: Drunk drivers are responsible for a high number of head-on collisions. These accidents often happen with a wrong-way driver who has entered a highway going in an incorrect direction.
- Distracted driving: A motorist who is distracted by texting or other activity can drift over the centerline, causing a head-on collision.
- Mechanical problems: A driver or motorcycle rider who has problems with their brakes can end up causing this type of crash. If the death was caused by a defect in the vehicle or motorcycle, the manufacturer and others can be held responsible through a product liability lawsuit.
- Improper passing: On some roads, especially rural ones, it is difficult to see ahead when a motorist wants to pass a slow vehicle. Passing when another vehicle is oncoming is a major reason for a head-on collision.
Investigating a Wrongful Death
Our firm sends investigators to the scene of the accident before evidence is removed or accidentally cleared. They examine the pavement for tell-tale signs that give the investigators information they need.
If possible, the investigators obtain video footage of the wrongful death accident from a witnesses’ cell phone or a traffic light surveillance camera. We also use accident reconstruction to understand how the crash happened and to determine liability. Once all the evidence is gathered, it is passed on to the legal team who use it to build a strong case for our client.
Antioch Wrongful Death Lawyer
I am Ed Smith, an Antioch wrongful death lawyer. If you lost a loved one in an accident caused by someone’s negligence, call me at (925) 428-5220 or (800) 404-5400 for my free and friendly advice. I can also be reached online.
I’ve worked as an injury lawyer over 38 years, helping injured people and grieving families obtain the compensation they deserve after a traffic accident or traumas such as brain injuries.
The links below can help you learn more about my firm:
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